CELEBRITY relationship expert Paul Brunson has teamed up with Specsavers to cheekily unveil an unconventional ‘intimacy device’. This small but powerful feat of AI-powered technology leverages rapid processing speeds and state of the art innovation to bring couples closer together; enhancing their connection and senses…
It may come as a surprise to learn that the device is none other than a Specsavers hearing aid, which Paul – co-host of Married at First Sight – has endorsed for its potential to remedy some of our most fundamental relationship issues (this Valentine’s).
This coincides with new research that reveals over half (53%) of Welsh couples believe actually “feeling listened to and truly heard” by their partner is the most important way to stay connected – with almost 1 in 6 (16%) believing the easiest way to stay close to their parter is by buying gifts. According to the survey of 2,000 British couples, people are spending an average of £766 a year (£11.3 billion collectively annually) on getaways.
In Wales, in the past year 34% of people have spent money on fancy meals and 19% have spent money on flowers in an effort to rekindle the spark. Yet simply addressing their hearing can really make the biggest difference to couples and help them reconnect with each other.
NHS England data shows that up to 18 million Brits struggle to hear properly, and many wait as long as 10 years to seek support. The new research reveals that over 1 in 4 (21%) of Welsh couples feel increasingly disconnected the longer they’ve been together. Symptoms often emerge in mid to late 40s and relationship challenges can be compounded by delays in treatment. Shockingly, an estimated 45% of people with hearing loss are not actively receiving care from hearing experts in the UK.
The good news is that Specsavers is here to help with a range of modern and discreet hearing devices that can help people reconnect. The new Specsavers Advance 65 hearing aids, with sophisticated AI technology, may be a particular welcomed companion for couples. They have the ability to: filter background noise, prioritise speech and enhance sound clarity to ensure you can properly hear your partner, whatever the scenario.
This may come as music to the ears of many long-suffering partners frequently “in the doghouse” for missing that vital piece of information or accused of selective hearing.
Earlier this week, Brunson ignited widespread speculation when he took to social media, teasing this mystery, ‘game-changing’ device to bring partners closer than ever. The ‘relationship aid’ has been revealed as Specsavers state-of-the-art Advance 65 hearing devices. They are designed to help couples truly hear one another, reconnect emotionally and rediscover closeness.
Paul C Brunson says: “If you can’t hear your partner clearly, you can’t truly connect with them. Intimacy and connection aren’t built on grand gestures and lavish gifts – they’re built on being heard in the everyday moments.
“When those exchanges are missed or misunderstood, emotional and physical closeness fades. Communication is at the heart of every type of connection in a relationship; naturally this begins with being able to truly hear your partner.
“So, getting a hearing check this Valentine’s could be one of the most romantic gestures you could do.”
Almost half (60%) of Welsh couples 18+ said either they or their partner struggle with their hearing, yet only 11% of people currently wear a hearing device.
Over one in four (26%) people in Wales admit regularly having to repeat themselves as a cause of tension in their relationship, while others say they’re often left feeling ignored, misunderstood or accused of “not listening”.
Over half of people in Wales (60%) said they feel disconnected from their partner when they don’t fully understand what the other is trying to say, fueling feelings of frustration (58%), emotional distance (36%) and isolation (26%).
Specsavers hearing expert, Sonam Sehemby, says: “Many people don’t realise their hearing has changed until their partner points it out. By then, it may have already affected confidence and day-to-day connection.
“A hearing check can identify these changes early, helping you stay engaged with what – and who – matters most.”
Dr Zoe Williams, GP, says: “Hearing loss quietly affects wellbeing and relationships long before people seek help. The good news is you don’t need to see your GP first.
“Hearing experts are easily accessible on the high street who can assess any changes and offer the right support there and then. Taking that step sooner can make a real difference to everyday connection and quality of life.”
Think your partner may be struggling? To book them in for a free hearing check and find out more information about the campaign, visit: specsavers.co.uk/hearing/relationships.
