Your older sister asks aloud why you're mumbling through your celebratory toast at the Thanksgiving table. Or your mother ignores repeated requests to pass the mashed potatoes and gravy. Or your grandfather insists on cranking the TV volume as you settle in after eating to watch the late NFL game. These aren't the typical scenes associated with this annual celebration, but they are part of what we'll call the Thanksgiving hearing test. How's that?
Hearing loss often becomes apparent at this time of year, in part because the intergenerational mix that often gathers for the holidays brings the issue to the fore: Crowded conversations with competing voices and lots of background noise pose particular challenges to people with even mild hearing loss.
Other possible signs of hearing loss to watch for include people staying silent during conversations or, conversely, monopolizing them. Both are strategies people often take to mask hearing loss.
The middle of your holiday feast might not be the right time to raise the subject of hearing loss. People are often sensitive about the issue, and you don't want to ruin the day with an awkward conversation. But if you suspect someone is having a hard time hearing—let's say Grandpa Ed—here's how to engage him in conversation:
- Get Grandpa Ed's attention by saying his name first so he has a chance to focus attention.
- Face Ed directly. If possible, make sure the light is on your face, not in grandpa's eyes.
- If you know one of Grandpa Ed's ears is stronger than than the other, place him at the table so the good ear is toward the crowd.
- Put your knife and fork down when talking, so grandpa can see your mouth. And, obviously, don't chew with your mouth full.
Our hearing aid buying guide will tell you what to look for in a hearing aid. Learn more by watching our video, below.
Once the day is settling down or in the following days, don't hesitate to bring up the issue of hearing loss. Today's high-tech devices can help a lot, and many can be worn stealthily.
Keep in mind that shopping for hearing aids isn’t like shopping for, say, a pair of glasses. You can’t just put them in and expect to suddenly hear better—it could take a month or more. During that time, you’ll need to practice using your hearing aids in different environments, such as in restaurants or at holiday parties or when talking on the phone or watching TV.
And remember to return as needed to the professional who fit your hearing aids for adjustments.
—Doug Podolsky
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