Relationship expert reveals 1 thing stopping couples from ‘connecting’ properly

Couples have splashed out more than £750 a year on ‘relationship repair’ gifts in a bid to reignite the spark. A poll of 2,000 adults in a relationship found 37% have booked a getaway to rekindle their connection. While 35% have treated their other half to a fancy meal, 21% have surprised their partner with a bouquet of flowers.

Despite the spending spree, 67% believe actually “feeling listened to and truly heard” by their partner is the most important way to stay connected. Married at First Sight expert, Paul Brunson said: “If you can’t hear your partner clearly, you can’t truly connect with them.”

The relationship expert, has partnered with Specsavers, who commissioned the research, to launch ‘the Relationship Aid’ – an AI-powered hearing aid endorsed as a remedy for relationship issues, by filtering background noise, prioritising speech and sharpening clarity, to help couples hear their partners. 

“Communication is at the heart of every relationship, and that starts with being able to truly hear your partner,” Paul added.

The research revealed 31% of couples bicker with their partner at least once a week. The top cause of arguments was over household responsibilities (31%), but it also included having to repeat yourself (29%) and not feeling heard. 

Nearly six in 10 (58%) said they feel disconnected from their partner when they don’t fully understand what the other is trying to say. Which often leaves them feeling frustrated, emotionally distant and isolated.

According to the survey carried out via OnePoll, 21% admitted they now feel less connected to their partner than they did at the start of their relationship. 

Among those, the main reasons include less intimacy (53%), the pressures of daily life (52%) and falling into a routine (50%).

Many also believe their connection has weakened because their partner doesn’t listen as much as they used to (38%), or because communication has declined overall (35%).

What’s more, 48% suspect their partner may be struggling with their hearing because they need to constantly repeat themselves or the television being turned up too loud.

Specsavers hearing expert Sonam Sehemby added: “Many people don’t realise their hearing has changed until a partner points it out.

“By then, it may already be affecting confidence and everyday connection. A hearing check can identify changes early, helping people stay engaged with what – and who – matters most.”