Thanksgiving is almost here, friends and family are getting ready for another Thanksgiving together after a long separation, and many are finding out that there have been significant changes with their loved ones. Studies have shown that over 48 million Americans are affected by hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss is closely correlated with diminishing quality of life and increased cases of depression, balance problems, dementia, and cognitive decline. Unfortunately, many adults never seek out treatment unless they receive intervention from family or friends. Many are already expressing excitement and joy at being able to celebrate Thanksgiving gatherings after being separated during the lockdowns. For some, this could be as long as two or three years. This makes it the perfect time to help loved ones who may have been suffering from the onset of hearing loss or a worsening of symptoms. If you are concerned about someone having difficulty dealing with hearing loss during Thanksgiving, you can follow our comprehensive and simple guide to help identify and assist them in participating in Thanksgiving celebrations and finding relief after.
How to Help Loved Ones with Hearing Loss During Thanksgiving
Learn the Tell-Tale Signs of Hearing Loss:
Many people don’t like to talk about problems they are having. Pride, fear, or just not wanting to upset loved ones are a few reasons people with hearing loss try to hide or not talk about the issues they are experiencing. Look for these signs that could indicate that someone you care about is dealing with untreated hearing loss:
• They are having difficulty understanding or following conversations
• They are withdrawn more than usual
• Issues arise when more sounds are present
• Volume levels are unusually high on their devices
• Problems with balance and feeling dizzy
What You Can Do to Help and Assist During the Holidays:
While there is nothing you can do to change the situation, there are many things you can do to help them during the holidays. As the old saying goes, it’s the little things that count!
• Reduce or eliminate background noise
• Stay calm and be patient
• Speak more clearly, not louder
• Avoid face masks, if you must use a face shield instead
• Avoid bad lighting
• Take turns speaking during a conversation
• Stay in eyeshot and move closer to help visual communication
• Use table planning and seat guests based on communication needs
In the end, hearing loss doesn’t have to be a tragedy or a source of family drama. Many who have hearing loss might not realize how bad it has become. The first step is to identify the issues, and then something can be done about it. The advancements in hearing assistance technology and testing can help improve lives significantly; it only takes that first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common signs of hearing loss include difficulty understanding or following conversations, withdrawal from social interaction, struggles when multiple sounds are present, unusually high volume settings on devices, and problems with balance or dizziness. Recognizing these signs can help you support your loved ones effectively.
To assist a loved one with hearing loss during Thanksgiving, reduce background noise, speak clearly (not louder), avoid face masks or use face shields, ensure good lighting, take turns when speaking, and seat guests strategically to facilitate communication. These steps create a more inclusive environment and improve their ability to participate.
Many adults avoid seeking treatment due to pride, fear, or not wanting to upset family members. They might also be unaware of the severity of their hearing loss. Early intervention often comes through encouragement from friends or family recognizing the issue.
Untreated hearing loss is linked to lower quality of life and higher risks of depression, balance issues, dementia, and cognitive decline. Addressing hearing loss through proper testing and technology can significantly improve these outcomes and overall wellbeing.
Modern hearing assistance technology, including advanced hearing aids and testing methods, can greatly improve hearing and communication. These advancements make it easier for individuals to participate fully in social events like Thanksgiving gatherings once properly assessed and fitted.
Thanksgiving often reunites families after long separations, making it an ideal opportunity to observe hearing difficulties and offer support. The festive gatherings provide a natural setting to identify challenges and encourage loved ones to seek treatment.
Practical tips include reducing background noise, speaking clearly and slowly without shouting, avoiding face masks that block lip reading, maintaining good lighting, making eye contact, and arranging seating so those with hearing difficulties can better engage and understand conversations.
