With the festive season approaching, many of us are looking forward to gatherings with family and friends. But if you or a loved one has hearing loss, these events can sometimes feel overwhelming. So, today, we’ll share some simple yet effective tips to help you enjoy the holidays to the fullest.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Spot
One of the easiest ways to improve hearing in a noisy environment is to choose a seat that minimizes background noise. For example, try to sit with your back to a wall or in a corner. This setup helps limit the sound coming from behind, making it easier to focus on the voices in front of you.
Tip 2: Position Yourself for Success
Position yourself so you can see people’s faces. We naturally rely on lip reading and facial expressions to help fill in the gaps when we miss a word or two. So, a well-lit area with good visibility will help you stay connected to the conversation.
Tip 3: Adjust Your Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, it’s worth checking that they’re set to a program for speech in noisy environments. Many hearing aids have settings designed specifically to help in social settings. You can also ask your audiologist to help adjust your devices or add a holiday program before your next gathering.
Tip 4: Reduce Background Noise
Sometimes, a little bit of planning goes a long way. If you’re hosting, try to create a “quiet zone” where background noise, like music or the TV, is kept to a minimum. Reducing competing sounds can make conversations a lot more enjoyable for everyone.
Tip 5: Don’t Be Afraid to Self-Advocate
It’s okay to let people know if you’re having trouble hearing. A simple reminder to face you when speaking, or to speak a bit more clearly, can make a world of difference. Most people are happy to help; they just need a little guidance.
Bonus Tip: Take a Break When You Need To
It’s normal to feel fatigued in these situations—hearing loss can make listening a little more tiring. So, don’t hesitate to take a short break if you need to recharge. A quick step outside or a few minutes in a quieter area can help you feel refreshed and ready to rejoin the fun.
So, whether you’re hosting or attending a gathering this festive season, we hope these tips help make it a memorable and enjoyable time. If you have any questions or need further assistance with your hearing devices, feel free to reach out to us at The Hearing Clinic. From all of us here, happy holidays and enjoy the season’s special moments with those you love!
