You might find a great deal of support if you could/would get involved in an HLAA Chapter.

Most HLAA folks are people who have experienced adult-onset hearing loss. Many are retired. I know many who have met a future significant other through involvement in HLAA. These people all understand the struggles we have in noisy settings. They look at hearing aids and cochlear implants as helpful technology. They feel good about helping themselves. They don't care if it shows to use it.

I struggled with personal issues about my hearing loss until I became involved in HLAA. For me that was a long time ago. I've been reaching out to others for decades now because that organization gave me my life back. http://www.hearingloss.org Look for 'chapters'.

It does mean going public about your unique needs. Are you willing to do that?