Hearing The Holidays

Reviewed by Dr. Porter on October 24, 2018

The Holiday season is a time to get together with family and friends, share stories and enjoy a good meal. For those experiencing hearing loss, however, those large gatherings are often seen as more stressful than joyful.

Is There A Hearing Issue?

The holidays are a time of great food and great conversations. If you have noticed that there is a friend or family member struggling with conversation, asking for words to be repeated, or not participating, they may be experiencing hearing loss.

If presented in as a caring manner, and promoting their well-being, your family member may be more receptive to hearing issues being addressed. Use real-life examples and possibilities – phone calls, restaurant interactions, how loud they keep their TV or radio. Explain that it’s an issue that can grow into a problem, but can be easily managed and improved.

When There Is Hearing Loss

If you or a family member knows that there is a hearing issue, there are a few things that the rest of the family should be aware of.

• Be Attentive.
  Some experiencing hearing loss, particularly recently diagnosed, may have spent time avoiding social settings due to communications issues. If this is the case, seek this person out and engage them in conversation.
• Watch the Seating Chart.
  Avoid having the person experiencing hearing loss sit near the kitchen or television. Competing with the background noise will cause challenges in conversations.
• Encourage other guests to speak clearly and face-to-face.
  Conversations can still be a challenge, even with hearing aids, if there is significant background noise. Standing face-to-face, in a well-lit room, and speaking clearly will make it easier for both parties.

Don’t let hearing loss interfere with the holidays. Contact our Gig Harbor location at (253) 203-6641, Tacoma location at (253) 617-7160, or Silverdale location at (360) 692-6650 or online for a hearing evaluation and take the first step to hearing wellbeing.

Categorised in: Holidays