Thanksgiving is a time for family, togetherness and making memories, but it can be challenging for people with hearing loss. While you’re sending invites, grabbing groceries from Spice Traveler and picking up your favorite decorations, take a minute to look through our tips for helping your loved ones enjoy their Thanksgiving with hearing loss.
Show Compassion and Understanding
When someone has difficulty hearing, they may withdraw or feel embarrassed. Be patient and understanding if they miss parts of a conversation and ask you to repeat yourself. By practicing compassion, you create a more welcoming atmosphere.
Keep Background Noise Down
One of the biggest challenges for people with hearing loss is background noise. Multiple conversations, music and clanging pots and pans can create an overwhelming auditory environment. Try these steps to make the gathering more accessible:
- Lower the music volume
- Organize seating so that your loved one is near the center of conversation, away from noisy areas like the kitchen
- Organize the eating area into smaller tables to promote small-group conversations
Reducing background noise might seem small, but it can greatly improve communication ease for those with hearing loss.
Ask Questions and Involve Your Loved One in the Conversation
When someone has hearing loss, they may avoid joining in because it’s hard to keep up. Encourage their participation by asking direct questions or allowing them to share stories. Make eye contact and face them when you speak to help improve conversation ease.
Encourage Hearing Treatment
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. These tiny devices collect and amplify speech to improve communication. Many modern hearing aids also have noise suppression technology and directional microphones to help the wearer communicate in noisy environments like Thanksgiving dinners.
Despite their benefits, many people hesitate to take the leap into hearing treatment. This Thanksgiving, give your loved one a nudge into treatment. A gentle reminder that their hearing aids can help them feel connected may be all they need.
Implementing these simple strategies can significantly improve your loved one’s Thanksgiving experience. To learn more about hearing loss, contact Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.