Hearing for the Holidays

The holidays can be a joyous time and often a loud hectic time of the year.    For those with hearing loss and hearing aids it can be especially stressful.   With hearing loss, hearing does not come naturally, people need to pay attention, focus and concentrate.  Listening in noisy places takes effort on the part of the person with hearing loss. 

Gatherings with family and friends, whether in a home or a restaurant can be loud, interfering with conversation.  When having difficulty hearing in a group conversation, try one- on-one conversations.  Make sure you are able to see speaker's face and pay attention to gestures.  Keep as much of the noise behind you as you can.  Be ready to ask people to speak slowly or to rephrase the information when needed.  Conversing loved ones is well worth the effort.  

When talking to someone with hearing loss, first get their attention.  This can be as simple as starting a sentence with their name. This way they can give your comments their attention.  Speak slowly and distinctly.    If they miss hear what was said rephrase it, state it differently.  Whenever possible reduce background noise. 

The first and best step to hearing well for the holidays starts with good audiologic care.  Have an audiologist perform a hearing evaluation and when recommended, wear hearing aids.  Hearing aids do a great job improving hearing and communication.  Get started now.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA
Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org/