For people with hearing loss, family dinners and gatherings can be a challenge. Not only do several people often talk at the same time in these situations, but they also raise their voices to be heard over each other.
Combine that with the clattering of dishes, scraping of chairs, and background music, and you have a scenario in which it is hard for individuals with hearing loss to have a good time. If you have difficulty hearing from one or both ears, or you use a hearing aid, there are a few steps you can take to make these big, noisy meals more enjoyable for you and your family.
Before Get-Togethers, Have a Talk With Your Family
It is crucial that you discuss your hearing loss with your family members before a big meal, so they can make adjustments to help you deal with the background noise. Your family can then do the things that will make communicating smoother like looking at you when they talk. It will make the meal a lot more enjoyable for everyone even if the conversation is a bit difficult.
When You Sit at The Table, Pick a Spot Near The Middle
In some cases, it’s tradition to sit at a certain spot at the table, but the best spot to sit if you want to have an easier time hearing conversation isn’t at the head or near the end of the table, it’s in the middle. If you’re in the middle of the table, you likely will not have to strain as much to hear what people are saying. Be certain you speak up and tell your family if there is a spot at the table that’s best for you.
Request a Lower Music Volume
Background noise can be a significant challenge for people with hearing loss because it’s hard for their ears to filter out this noise and focus in on speech. If you are at a family get-together, ask that the music is turned off or set at a very low volume. If you are in a restaurant, sit as far away from speakers as you can and away from loud places, like near the kitchen, where you can hear the clattering of pots and pans.
Technology Can Help
An FM system or a directional microphone are useful solutions if you don’t already have them. Voices you want to hear are amplified and you can isolate background noise by facing away from it using these technologies.
Attempting to Bluff Your Way Through Isn’t Good Plan
Your family members won’t know you’re struggling to hear if you don’t tell them. A family gathering is a time to celebrate, and your hearing loss should never stop you from joining in on the fun. If there are adjustments needed mid-meal, your family will be happy to help out.
