Stay Connected: Hearing Aids and Fall Family Gatherings

When the fall months approach, many people opt to spend more time indoors due to the colder and sometimes wetter weather. For most, this likely means spending more time at family gatherings for all occasions from Halloween movie nights to Thanksgiving dinner. For those with hearing loss, it can be difficult to get the full experience from family gatherings due to difficulty hearing and not being able to concentrate in loud environments.

Whether you are attending small or large family gatherings in the fall, here is how to stay connected with hearing aids at fall family gatherings.

Talk to Family Members or Hosts Ahead of Time

Although the majority of your close friends and family will know about your hearing loss and aids, not everyone will be aware. It is advised to make your family or hosts aware of your hearing loss before the event so you can be seated in the right spot for optimal conversation. They will understand that you might require intimate settings with a low volume to communicate effectively.

Additionally, making people aware before the event will ensure that if music is played, the noise can be kept low so you can hear conversations and surrounding noises. If the setting is too loud, it might cause you to struggle to hear people speak.

Make Time for Quiet Conversations

It is essential to make time for quiet conversations if you wish to catch up with people. If you try to communicate with people when the music is loud or too many people are speaking, you might notice that you find it difficult to concentrate.

To ensure that you can properly catch up with family and friends at gatherings, ensure to make time for quiet conversations. Head to a quieter place in the house or venue so you can hear and concentrate.

Be Sure to Take Breaks

Wearing hearing aids can cause listening fatigue, which is when your ears are trying to work overtime to keep up with conversations. To avoid this, be sure to take breaks from all of the noise so you can avoid feeling tired or stressed at the family gathering. Heading into a quiet room or stepping outside for a few moments can ensure you can remain positive and focused, without allowing your hearing loss to cause unnecessary stress.

Choose a Quiet Seat or Place

When you head to the gathering, be sure to look out for the quietest place to sit.

Sitting in a quiet place will help you have good conversations and hear other noises rather than loud conversations or music. Sitting away from the speakers, television or radio is a good idea so the volume does not cause listening fatigue or hinder your conversations.

When people are made aware of your hearing loss and aids, they will ensure to create a quiet place for you to sit so you can be as comfortable as possible when you arrive. Instead of you needing to scout out a quiet place, it will be ready and waiting for you.

Always Bring Extra Batteries

Bringing spare batteries to your fall family gathering holds significant importance, especially if you rely on hearing aids for optimal communication. As the cool autumn weather sets in, it can impact the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries. Having extras on hand ensures that you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected battery depletion, allowing you to actively participate in conversations and fully enjoy the festivities. It provides a sense of assurance, knowing that you’re prepared to address any potential interruptions in your hearing aid performance. This small yet crucial step can make a substantial difference in your overall experience, ensuring you stay engaged and connected during this cherished time with loved ones.
When it comes to storing extra hearing aid batteries on the go, a few simple tips can go a long way in ensuring you’re always prepared. First, consider investing in a small, durable container specifically designed for battery storage. This will not only keep them organized but also protect them from dirt and moisture. Opt for a container with a secure, easy-to-open lid for convenience. Additionally, avoid storing batteries with loose change or keys, as they can potentially damage the batteries or cause short circuits.

Using these tips, you will guarantee to have the most comfortable time at family gatherings this fall when using hearing aids to improve your hearing. If you’re looking for additional information, don’t hesitate to contact a team member at ENT Specialists by calling (402) 983-9948.