Speaking to mark World Hearing Day on Monday 3 March, the 62-year-old said he recently discovered he had mild hearing loss after noticing subtle changes at home.
“I was saying ‘pardon?’ to my wife more often and the TV volume had crept up to 33,” he said. “As soon as I thought there might be a problem with my hearing, I wanted to get it checked. I wear glasses to help me see better, so why wouldn’t I want to improve my hearing?”
For Holloway, the issue is personal.
He and his wife Kim have three deaf children, two who wear cochlear implants and one who uses hearing devices. They also have two deaf grandchildren with cochlear implants.
After recognising the signs, he booked a hearing test at the Regent Street branch of Specsavers in Swindon, where checks are available to the public.
He said many people delay seeking help when their hearing changes.
“I’ve seen first-hand how hard it is to live without sound,” he said. “I don’t want to miss out on anything. With modern technology as good as it is, hearing devices nowadays are just fantastic and make a huge difference.”
His test revealed mild hearing loss in both ears, particularly affecting softer sounds such as “sh”.
After being fitted with hearing devices, he said the difference was immediate, including clearer conversations and being able to lower the television volume.
He acknowledged there can still be stigma around wearing hearing devices.
“I know some people might feel reluctant,” he said. “But they can be really discreet and if they help, it makes total sense. I wanted to set an example to my grandchildren.”
Holloway said he wants to remain fully engaged both at home and in his role at the club.
“I’m a big believer in living life to the full,” he said. “I love music, especially soul and Motown. I want to enjoy artists like Marvin Gaye and Al Green for many more years to come.”
He added: “Less pleased when I can hear what away fans are shouting more clearly at games perhaps.”
