FARMINGTON HILLS, MICHIGAN — With year-end holiday gatherings approaching, the International Hearing Society (IHS) is encouraging individuals who may be experiencing hearing loss to take steps to address their hearing so they can participate more fully in celebrations with family, friends, and colleagues.
“The holidays can be overwhelming for individuals with hearing loss because of background noise that magnifies their struggles to understand conversation. And, there can be denial attached to admitting it. This is where a licensed Hearing Aid Specialist comes in. They will work with you or your loved one to come up with a solution that caters to your needs and coach you through how to go about addressing it with others,” said IHS President Michael Andreozzi, BS, BC-HIS.
When to Consider a Hearing Evaluation
IHS notes that a hearing evaluation is an important first step for anyone who has concerns about their hearing. General guidelines include:
- People should get their hearing tested every three years.
- People regularly exposed to noise should have an annual hearing test.
- People who notice a change in their hearing or develop tinnitus should have their hearing checked as soon as possible.
- Current hearing aid wearers should have an annual hearing test.
Individuals can work with a licensed Hearing Aid Specialist to discuss their hearing concerns and explore appropriate options for care.
Holiday Communication Tips
To help make seasonal gatherings more comfortable and inclusive, the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) offers the following tips for people with hearing loss and their families, friends, and hosts:
- Choose a seat with a wall behind you to avoid background noise and, if possible, sit away from a busy kitchen or other noisy areas.
- Have one-on-one conversations in quieter rooms or away from the main group.
- Take frequent breaks, as group settings can be physically and mentally tiring.
- Tell the other person when you did not hear them and ask them to repeat.
- Speak clearly while facing guests, and avoid talking while chewing or drinking.
- Minimize household noises during conversations, such as running water, dishwashers, dogs barking, or children playing nearby.
In regard to these tips, HLAA Executive Director Barbara Kelley said, “Enjoying time with loved friends and family is easier when everyone is thoughtful about the hearing needs of the people around them. People with hearing loss can set themselves up for success by asking for specific seating arrangements, using appropriate hearing assistive devices, and taking breaks when needed.”
“Everyone else can help by being familiar with the needs of those with hearing loss. Simple things like minimizing background noise during a conversation, looking at the person you’re talking to and asking if there’s anything else you can do will go a long way toward making the day less stressful for all.”
IHS notes that these types of strategies may help make holiday gatherings less intimidating and more supportive for people with hearing loss.
About the International Hearing Society
The International Hearing Society (IHS) is a membership association that represents hearing healthcare professionals worldwide, including hearing aid specialists. IHS members are engaged in the practice of performing hearing assessments; selecting, fitting, and dispensing hearing instruments; counseling patients; and providing aftercare services. Founded in 1951, IHS protects, represents, and promotes the interests of hearing healthcare and hearing healthcare professionals. For more information, visit www.ihsinfo.org.
