Do you have a wedding, family get-together, or a birthday dinner with friends at Bluewater Grill coming up? Social events are a regular occurrence, and if you are new to hearing aids, you may be nervous about how to navigate a party or other event while wearing them.
Let’s go over a few steps you can take to make socializing easier and more fun while using your hearing aids.
Try To Be Well Rested Before the Party
Hearing loss makes your brain have to work harder to process speech and other sounds. Hearing aids help immensely to relieve the burden, but you may still be prone to experiencing mental fatigue quicker when you’re socializing in loud environments, such as a party. If you know you have a bigger event coming up, try to have a few relaxing days beforehand to feel well-rested and prepared before the big day.
Consider Your Location
Once you get to the party, take stock of your surroundings and try to find the best place for you to situate yourself. Look for places that are:
- Light on background noise
- In the corner or perimeter of the room
- Away from loud areas like speakers or a busy kitchen
- Well-lit so that you can see others’ faces more easily
- Have carpets or drapes to help absorb background sound
Communicate Your Hearing Loss Needs
Some people feel slightly awkward talking about their hearing loss with others, but there’s no need to feel embarrassed.
First of all, it’s incredibly common. In 2019, over 7% of adults 45 and older used a hearing aid. Secondly, if someone invited you to their event, they want you to have a good time! Most people are more than happy to accommodate your hearing loss needs if they know it would help you. This may mean considering quieter venues to meet for dinner, turning down the music or seating you at the center of the table where it’s easier to hear everyone and see their faces.
Be Gentle With Yourself…. And Have Fun!
Parties are meant to be fun! So, relax, laugh and catch up with old friends. Also, don’t be afraid to take a break when you need it. Socializing can be overwhelming for lots of different reasons, and if you need a few quiet minutes to yourself from time to time, be kind and give yourself that chance to reset.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our hearing experts, call Hearing Services of Santa Barbara today.
