Trouble hearing in noisy environments
With some forward planning, hearing loss does not have to be a barrier to enjoying social events for both guests and hosts.

The holidays are often a festive time full of family gatherings, parties and social events.  However, for 1 in 6 Australians*, these are times of added stress and anxiety.  These supposedly enjoyable events are often challenging listening environments, negatively impacting communication, posing a greater risk of being isolated from conversations, and potentially diminishing one’s sense of wellbeing.

The tips below are designed to empower guests and hosts to have communication-friendly gatherings, that are more inclusive of the those with hearing loss, and thus making it more enjoyable for all.

* The prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, with 50% of those aged 60-70 suffering from hearing loss, increasing to 70% of those 70 and over, and 80% of those aged 80 and over.

If you are a guest who has hearing loss, plan ahead:

  • Arrive at gatherings relaxed and well rested to hear at your best. Your physical and emotional state affects how well you perceive your hearing abilities to be. 
  • Where you sit and your surroundings matter. Choose a seat with a wall behind you to minimise background noise, and distance yourself from a bustling kitchen or thoroughfare if possible. Seat yourself toward the middle of the table, where you’re best able to clearly see everyone’s faces.
  • Sit with an ally who understands your hearing loss and can support you.
  • Have conversations one-on-one, and if possible away from the noise, e.g. in another room or foyer.
  • Don’t bluff. Let your conversation partner know what parts you didn’t hear.  Being specific with the information you missed, nurtures more effective communication and minimises the risk of the speaker repeating themselves in exactly the same way, causing you to miss exactly the same piece of information again.
  • Don’t expect perfection. Be accepting that you’re likely not going to hear everything in challenging listening environments, and recognise that neither will other people hear everything.
  • Give yourself frequent breaks. Social and group settings can be tiring physically, emotionally and mentally.

If you are a host, it’s likely that some of your guests have hearing loss. Be accommodating and inclusive by planning ahead:

  • Keep background music low and minimise household noises, e.g. dishwasher. Turn music off during dinnertime when conversations are key.
  • Use smaller round tables that allows guests to be closer to each other, so guests can better hear each other and better see each others’ faces for visual cues.
  • Refrain from displaying large centrepieces that blocks the faces of guests.
  • Ensure good lighting that is bright enough to clearly see faces.
  • Model good communication by speaking clearly at a normal pace and volume, while facing the respective guest(s).
  • Encourage good communication etiquette by modelling turn-taking when conversing in group settings, and not talking whilst chewing or drinking.
  • Provide multiple spaces at guest can spread out, for quiet one-on-one or small group conversations.

With some forward planning, hearing loss does not have to be a barrier to enjoying social events for both guests and hosts. Additionally, with the advent of new AI technology, hearing aids can significantly improve communication in noisy environments.

Take the crucial step towards understanding your hearing and listening needs with Holistic Audiology. Our comprehensive and holistic approach is designed to address your unique communication challenges. Schedule an appointment today and let us guide you towards clearer, more connected hearing.

Happy Holidays!

Hearing Better Helps YOU Be Better

Come and see us at Holistic Audiology today. "Hearing Better Together".

Our Readers Also Like…

Must-Know Facts About Hearing Loss and Dementia

Did you know that hearing loss is the number one risk factor for dementia? Studies suggests treating hearing loss may reduce dementia.

Clearer Hearing, Brighter Mind: Your Path to Brain Health

Research has unveiled a compelling connection between hearing aid use and cognitive health, particularly in reducing the risk of dementia.

Hearing Technology

Optimise Your Hearing Abilities With Leading Hearing Technology. Holistic Audiology provides world-class hearing technology at competitive prices.