Whether you or a loved one has hearing loss, there are simple things that can be done to make sure no one misses out on the sounds of the season:
How to help a loved one with hearing loss at holiday gatherings
- Before you start talking, make sure you have the person’s attention.
- Make sure you’re in the same room – don’t try talking from another room.
- Many people with hearing loss rely on lip reading, so make sure they can clearly see your face.
- When asked to repeat something, try rephrasing what you said. Sometimes a word or phrase is missed because the word or sound falls in a range the person has trouble hearing (even when wearing hearing aids).
- Slow down and speak clearly – don’t shout!
How to manage your hearing loss at holiday gatherings
- Be sure you’re consistently wearing your hearing aids so you’re used to them, this will help large gatherings and parties sound more natural.
- Remember it’s okay to take breaks. Listening in noisy environments can be hard and even tiring.
- Seek out quiet spots where you can have small group or one-on-one conversations.
- If comfortable doing so, let the host know you have hearing loss so they can help you navigate the gathering.
- To manage the noise, adjust your hearing aids to a comfortable volume or use a noise program if your hearing aids have one. Resist the temptation to take them off – remember parties are loud for everyone!
A quick, simple hearing test. An online hearing test can tell you how well you or your family member are hearing and whether you should schedule an in-person hearing test with a local hearing provider.
Click here to take a FREE hearing test from the comfort of home. Visit www.aarpHearingSolutions.com/hearingtest/ today.
DISCLAIMER: The online hearing test is not intended to act as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider with any question about a medical condition.
The AARP hearing program discount cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions, coupons or hearing aid benefit plans unless noted herein. Products or services that are reimbursable by federal programs including Medicare and Medicaid are not available on a discounted or complimentary basis. AARP commercial member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details. UnitedHealthcare Hearing is provided through UnitedHealthcare, offered to existing members of certain products underwritten or provided by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates to provide specific hearing aid discounts. This is not an insurance nor managed care product, and fees or charges for services in excess of those defined in program materials are the member's responsibility. UnitedHealthcare does not endorse nor guarantee hearing aid products/services available through the hearing program. This program may not be available in all states or for all group sizes. Components subject to change.
