Thanksgiving is a celebration of food, family and gratitude—a time for laughs, storytelling and, of course, a few slices of pecan and pumpkin pie. But for the more than 10% of people in the United States living with hearing loss, the holiday hustle and bustle can turn festive fun into an overwhelming experience. Between the noise of the kitchen, background music, cheering during touch football at Exploration Park and overlapping conversations, it’s easy to feel left out of the Thanksgiving spirit.
The good news is that hearing loss doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. With a few helpful strategies, you can savor every bit of Thanksgiving, from the mashed potatoes to the lively conversations. Take a look at our guide for a fun and easy holiday with hearing loss.
1. Turn Down the Volume on Background Noise
Background noise can turn Thanksgiving into a sound overload. Whether it’s a football game on TV, a playlist in the background or clattering dishes, background noise can make it challenging to hear loved ones clearly. If you’re hosting, try swapping the usual holiday playlist for soft instrumental music or keeping the TV off during dinner.
2. Use Visual Cues to Your Advantage
Thanksgiving often comes with cozy, dim lighting to set the mood. While this makes for a warm atmosphere, it’s not ideal for reading facial expressions or lip-reading. Instead, make sure you’re in a well-lit area so you can see people’s faces clearly. Visual cues like lip movements and facial expressions can help you follow conversations.
3. Communicate Openly About Your Hearing Needs
There’s no need to go it alone—Thanksgiving is about family time, and your loved ones want you to enjoy it just as much as they do. Take a moment to let friends and family know about your hearing challenges and how they can help make conversations smoother. Requests may include speaking clearly, repeating or rephrasing if needed, not shouting over each other, facing you directly while speaking and more.
4. Bring Your Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, Thanksgiving is the perfect occasion to showcase their benefits! Hearing aids can amplify voices while reducing background noise, helping you follow conversations without feeling left out. Remember to check your batteries or bring extras to keep your hearing aids working from appetizers through dessert.
This year, let’s be grateful for clear conversations and cherished memories. For more information about accommodating hearing loss, contact Davies Institute for Speech & Hearing today.