The holiday season brings lively gatherings, time with family and cherished moments.
However for those with hearing loss, these festivities can also present challenges. To learn more about how to stay connected and comfortable during the busy holiday season ahead, we checked in with the experts at Nanaimo Hearing Clinic:
- Tune up before the holidays: Ensure your hearing aids are in good condition before the festive season. Schedule a checkup to adjust settings, replace worn parts and address any concerns. “A quick service can make all the difference for clear communication,” says Hanan Merrill, hearing practitioner and owner of Nanaimo Hearing Clinic.
- Choose seating strategically: At gatherings, position yourself where you can see people’s faces for easier lip reading. If possible, sit near well-lit areas and away from background noise sources like the kitchen or sound systems.
- Advocate for yourself: Let your loved ones know about your hearing needs. Politely request slower-paced conversations or minimal interruptions. Open communication can foster inclusion and understanding.
- Build a holiday hearing kit: Prepare for contingencies with a small kit containing extra batteries, a cleaning brush and a backup device if you have one. Including accessories like wireless microphones can augment your understanding in group settings.
- Optimize technology: Modern hearing aids come equipped with features like Bluetooth streaming and directional microphones. Utilize these to connect with sound systems or directly amplify speech in noisy environments.
- Minimize background noise: At home gatherings, ask the host to lower music volume or turn off unnecessary sounds like the TV. This simple adjustment can dramatically improve conversation quality.
- Take listening breaks: If fatigue sets in, take short breaks in quieter areas. Recharge your energy before rejoining the festivities.
- Prioritize one-on-one conversations: Larger groups can be overwhelming. Focus on engaging one or two individuals at a time, where conversations are more manageable.
- Welcome social support: Invite a loved one to act as a “hearing ally” to help you navigate noisy gatherings and ensure you don’t miss out on key moments.
- Reassess your hearing health: If you notice any changes in your hearing or device performance, don’t wait for the new year. Early intervention can make a significant difference during this busy time of year.
For more hearing tips or to book an appointment with the Nanaimo Hearing Clinic for yourself or a loved one, call 250-585-4100 or visit nanaimohearingclinic.com/contact.
Find the Nanaimo Hearing Clinic at 501-5800 Turner Rd. in Cactus Club Plaza, Nanaimo or at their Parksville location at Oceanside Hearing Clinic, 543 Stanford Ave E #103.