The holidays are coming up soon, and large family get-togethers and dinners in crowded restaurants can prove especially difficult for people with hearing loss. Everyone is conversing loudly and at the same time.
It becomes even more difficult for people who have hearing loss when you add other noises like background music, chairs scraping, and dishes clattering. There are a few ways you can make these loud gatherings more enjoyable for you and your family if you have a hard time hearing out of one or both ears or if you use a hearing aid.
Before Gatherings, Have a Talk With Your Family
It is important that you talk about your hearing loss with your family before a big meal, so they can make adjustments to help you cope with the background noise. Your family can then do the things that will make communicating easier like facing you when they talk. It will make the meal much more enjoyable for everyone even if the conversation is a bit difficult.
Sit in The Center of The Table
Sometimes, it’s tradition to sit at a certain place at the table, but the best spot to sit if you want to have an easier time hearing conversation isn’t at the head or near the end of the table, it’s in the middle. You will not have as hard of a time hearing conversations from the middle of the table. Be certain you speak up and let your family know if there is a place at the table that’s best for you.
Request a Lower Music Volume
Background noise can be a major problem for people with hearing loss because it’s hard for their ears to filter out this noise and concentrate on speech. If you are at a family gathering, ask that the music is turned off or set at a very low volume. If you’re in a restaurant, sit as far away from speakers as you can and away from noisy places, like near the kitchen, where you can hear the clanging of pots and pans.
Technology Can Help
If you don’t already have them, think about purchasing directional microphones or an FM system. Voices you want to hear are amplified and you can isolate background noise by facing away from it with these technologies.
Attempting to Bluff Your Way Through Isn’t Good Plan
Your loved ones won’t know you’re struggling to hear if you don’t inform them. A family get-together is a time to celebrate, and your hearing impairment should never stop you from getting in on the fun. Your loved ones will be happy to assist you with any adjustments you may need to make during your meal.