No matter the holiday celebration taking place in your busy household – Christmas, Chanukah, or Kwanza – hearing loss affects people of all ages and cultures. Hearing loss can happen in an instant or build over time.
A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveals that about 6% of our U.S. population under age 70, and nearly 1 in 4 adults experience hearing loss in one or both ears.
While it is ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, hearing loss can also lead to isolation and avoidance of social situations. So it’s important to recognize the signs of hearing loss and gain a better understanding of simple, easy-to-practice tips. Be empowered with ways to help those who can use your support!
We’re sharing ways you can make the holidays more joyous for friends and loved ones with hearing issues.
It’s important to plan well in advance; before the fun begins:
- Make time for ‘TLC check’ and fine-tune any hearing devices before festivities!
It’s a busy time of year and the holiday season seems to fly by extremely fast. But if we make time for moments like a holiday haircut, or check that our holiday attire is ready-to-wear, we can help friends and loved ones fine-tune their hearing aids. Set up an appointment with us or stop by our walk-in clinic Monday – Friday from 12:00 – 1:00, and we can help ensure any hearing devices are in tip-top shape. - Create a holiday sing-along or seasonal playlist that can be enjoyed through headphones or fidelity-boosting devices, such as smart hearing devices.
You can give the gift of music back to those potentially unaware that holiday music can be richly-enjoyed once again. - Take the lead and plan some engaging conversation topics.
There’s plenty you can do to create opportunity for discussions and participation! Learn about special interests, so the topics will gravitate toward areas your hearing-challenged guests are interested in and encourages them to share their thoughts and comments.
During special gatherings or events:
- Study proximity to noise and move away.
Guide your guests away from the noisiest areas. - Find the source of the loudest volume and control it.
But if you can’t affect the volume, then put some distance between your loved ones and the source. There are many discreet apps that can identify noise that can cause damage (especially those above 85 decibels). - Create cozy, one-on-one conversation areas.
This creates comfortable gathering spaces and also provides a controllable environment. Make it easy for those you want to spend time with to follow simple one-on-one conversations. - Write guest names on table placesetting cards.
This makes it easier for those using their other senses, like their eyes, to locate where they can anticipate sitting without asking for an assist. - Keep things relaxed.
You certainly want to keep things positive and fun! No one should ever feel hearing loss is ‘a problem’. Friends, loved ones, family and even strangers will remember your kindness and empathy long after the holiday is over. - Provide a hearing-friendly gift.
Alternative alarm clocks that help people with hearing loss are an option. So are hearable TV listening devices, special closed-captioning telephones for hearing loss and digital doorbells. Those are just a few ideas – you are sure to discover more in your search!
Remember, our caring staff can take care of you and help you and your loved ones gain the most out of this holiday season. So much of the enjoyment experienced this time of year centers around interaction and communication.
We can also help you select the perfect gift for loved ones with hearing challenges by discussing products that can help them hear better, or make life a bit easier with hearing loss.
We invite you to visit us at either of our two convenient locations in Newport Beach or Ladera Ranch.
Wishing you and your family a joyful, memorable holiday season!
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