5 Strategies For Enjoying The Holiday Season If You Have A Hard Time Hearing

Do social gatherings make you uncomfortable because you have a difficult time discerning what people are saying? If so, you might have some degree of hearing loss, either in one or both ears. If this is the case, you'd likely benefit from a hearing assessment and discussion about hearing solutions at our audiology clinic in Calgary. But regardless of whether or not you decide to have your hearing tested (perhaps you already know you're hard of hearing?) here are a few things that can help you enjoy upcoming holiday gatherings.

1. Be open about your hearing difficulties

If you let people know that you're struggling to hear, they'll be better able to help you. You can ask them to speak slower, louder and more clearly. Even friends and family who know you well may need to be reminded to enunciate their words. Be patient with them and yourself.

2. Opt for one-on-one conversations over group conversations

Whenever possible, talk with just one individual at a time. If you have difficulty hearing, trying to keep up with a conversation that has multiple speakers can be very challenging.

3. Choose the venue carefully

If you're hard of hearing, you may want to choose a venue for your holiday gathering that's conducive to clear communication. If the event will take place at a restaurant, opt for one that's quieter. Avoid peak hours, such as Friday and Saturday nights, and if a private party room is available, book it. Alternatively, you may wish to host your holiday event at your own home, where you'll be more comfortable and able to control lighting and noise.

4. Choose your seating wisely

Being able to see people's faces when they're talking can be very helpful when it comes to understanding what they say. For this reason, you may wish to sit with your back to a window or lamp, as you'll then be better able to make out facial expressions. Additionally, try to sit with your back to an empty space, as sound won't be bounced around as much. Finally, if hearing is better in one ear over the other, then position yourself to maximize the amount of sound coming into that ear.

5. Use Hearing aids

Using a hearing device can greatly aid your capacity to hear at social gatherings and elsewhere. Though wearing a hearing aid can take a bit of getting used to, conversations will be easier to follow and your overall quality of life will improve.

An audiology clinic providing the hearing solutions you need

The team of audiologists at Soundwave Hearing Care want to give you the gift of better hearing this holiday season. Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. For your convenience, we have clinics to serve you in Calgary, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge and High River.