Thanksgiving is here, and if you’re heading to someone else’s home for the big celebration, you’re probably busy deciding on the perfect side dish to bring, figuring out the dress code and finalizing your plans. But one thing you might not have on your to-do list is preparing for a conversation-filled day.
For those with hearing loss, the social buzz of Thanksgiving can feel overwhelming.
Let’s explore three practical tips to ease communication stress this Thanksgiving.
Take Some Time Alone
Before heading to your Thanksgiving dinner, carve out a little time to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a peaceful walk through Greer City Park, sipping a warm coffee on your porch or getting lost in a good book, these moments of calm can help you feel centered and ready to enjoy the social festivities ahead.
Wear Hearing Aids
Approximately 7.1% of adults aged 45 and over used a hearing in 2019 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Wearing these devices at a noisy event like Thanksgiving can make all the difference in staying connected. Today’s hearing aids are packed with helpful features like noise filtering and directional microphones, which cut through the background buzz and make conversations much clearer.
Before heading out to your Thanksgiving gathering, take a moment to check your device batteries. It’s always a good idea to bring extra batteries or a charger. Many modern devices even let you check battery levels in a smartphone app, so give that a quick look before the festivities begin.
Ask for Quiet When You Need It
Thanksgiving gatherings often come with layers of background noise—music, football games or the hum of multiple conversations. While these sounds add to the festive vibe, they can be challenging for someone trying to hear clearly. If the background noise becomes distracting during dinner, kindly suggest turning it down or off to make conversations easier to follow.
Try Communication Strategies
To help foster easier communication, ask your friends and family to speak one at a time. This approach benefits everyone, not just those with hearing challenges. If you struggle to understand someone, ask them to look directly at you when they speak and rephrase themselves when necessary. These small adjustments ensure that you can feel included in the holiday fun.
For more tips on accommodating your hearing loss, contact Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy for an appointment with one of our specialists.
