Dear Readers,
This week in the Better Hearing Consumer, I write simply to wish everyone a holiday season that is stress-free and communication-joyful.
When our family and friends speak with us in a way that is absolutely, perfectly easy to understand, we should let them know. We don’t have to grovel with gratitude, but we can share our pleasure in a job well-done, especially if it’s not always been the case.
If the noise becomes too much – in our house, at a party, in church – it’s OK to say, “this noise is a bit too much” and remove ourselves to a haven of quiet for a little while. When this happens, I find that other people often feel the same way.
When we have any control over the seating arrangements at a big family dinner, let’s not hesitate to pick the seat that works best for us…even if our aunt usually sits there. She’ll understand if you explain. Tell them all – our family and friends that love us – that we love them too and want to enjoy a family dinner with them.
When the tinnitus ramps up, louder than anything else, let’s help our brain move to something more pleasantly engaging – a holiday movie, a conversation, anything other than giving our undivided attention to the hurtful noise in our head.
It is one of my greatest life pleasures to write a weekly column on HearingHealthMatters.com for people affected by hearing loss, and I will be back in the new year. Until then, enjoy the holidays in the way that you are accustomed and which you enjoy.
With affection,
Gael Hannan
