The big day will be here in the blink of an eye. So it’s time to make the most of the moments we get to spend with family and friends and ensure that everyone can be involved by following these 10 ideas on how you can hear better this Christmas.
We know social gatherings can be daunting and a little isolating for people with hearing loss.
With that in mind, we’ve put together some tips and tricks for the festive season to help you make memories that last.
There are tips for people with hearing loss and suggestions for family and friends as well. Share these around to get the most out of Christmas.
1. LET THE GROUP KNOW YOU HAVE A HEARING LOSS
Sounds obvious doesn’t it, but it is surprising how many people don’t do this even in the company of friends and family. It doesn’t need to be a “tapping a spoon against a wine glass” announcement but simply make people aware that you have a hearing loss.
2. REDUCE BACKGROUND NOISE
Who doesn’t love a Christmas Carol but hearing over it can be challenging if you have a hearing loss. You don’t want to be a killjoy, but I’m sure your host won’t mind if you ask them to turn the music down a little. If you don’t want to miss out on that special conversation, find a quieter place to talk.
3. WEAR YOUR HEARING AIDS
Sounds obvious but you would be surprised. Don’t fall into a trap of wearing your hearing device only when you think “you really need them”, we know they may take a little getting used to but the same can be said of almost everything in life. Click on the link to watch Jo’s advice regarding wearing hearing devices.
4. PICK A GOOD POSITION
Pick a good seat in the middle of the dinner table so you can clearly see most people at the table. Visual cues are a huge help when trying to follow a conversation. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to move for you. Your ability to hear this Christmas hangs in the balance and this request is not an inconvenience. Ask your loved ones to ensure their face is visible to you when they’re speaking.
If you are out, for example at a restaurant, be sure to call ahead and book a table near the sides of the room, as tables in the middle of the room are usually much louder as the noise reverberates off the walls and into the middle of the room. Also ensure you choose the seat where you are FACING the wall so all the noise is behind you. Your ear shape and your hearing aids are designed to reduce sounds from behind and pick up from in front, so if you can seat yourself with the noise behind you, you will help filter that unwanted sound out as much as possible. Try not to sit with your back against the wall as this is the worst position for hearing clearer.
5. ASK FOR REPEATS
Don’t simply smile and nod if you are not sure what was said – don’t be afraid to ask for repeats and be aware of the topic of conversation.
6. BE REALISTIC
Normal hearing people do not hear everything in social gatherings, so it is not realistic for you to hear everything this Christmas either.
7. BE PREPARED
If you wear hearing aids, make sure you have spare batteries handy or remember to pack your charger. You don’t want to be caught short over the Festive Season.
8. SERVICE YOUR HEARING DEVICES
Not taking care of your hearing aids means you won’t get the best out of them. A little bit of maintenance will keep your aids and thus your hearing at its best. Read our blog with 6 tips for hearing aid care here.
Change the wax filters regularly. Watch our video regarding how to change your wax filters for a refresher on how to do this. Remember to use your electronic dryer or drying beaker. If you don’t have one of these give us a call to discuss. Using one of these will mean your aids will last much longer and serve you better.
Wipe them over with a soft, dry cloth and give them a brush with the special tool supplied with your devices.
We also offer walk in checks for all hearing aids to help you get the best out of your devices. No need for an appointment, just come on in. Ensure you do this a few weeks before your Christmas events. Also read our blog on hearing aid troubleshooting if you have trouble over the festive season.
9. CONSIDER A NEW HEARING AID
It is Christmas after all! Why not spoil yourself with a new hearing aid. There are some incredible devices on the market that do more than just help you hear. From rechargeable hearing aids to aids that can stream music from your phone, it might be time for an upgrade. You can even try the new hearing aids over the Festive Season and experience the difference the latest technology can make, especially for hearing clearer in background noise.
10.STAY POSITIVE AND ENJOY YOURSELF!
If you miss out on a few things here and there, try not to feel frustrated. Enjoy being in the presence of loved ones and keep your spirits high.
If you’d like to find out more about our hearing aids and their amazing features or need to service your devices call us on 5231 8867.
