The Sounds We’re Thankful For

How to Make Holiday Gatherings Inclusive for Loved Ones with Hearing Loss

The holidays are filled with sounds that bring us together, such as the clinking of silverware, laughter from the living room, kids running around, or hearing stories from our loved ones. These are the sounds that make Thanksgiving feel like Thanksgiving. However, for individuals with hearing loss, these joyful sounds often become muted, leading to moments of isolation during fun-filled gatherings.

Fortunately, by implementing a few thoughtful changes, you can create a more inclusive environment that allows everyone to participate and enjoy the celebrations.

Understanding Hearing Loss: The Importance of Awareness 

Awareness is the first step towards fostering an inclusive environment. Hearing loss often happens gradually, making it challenging for some to realize how much they may be missing during conversations. Family gatherings, especially those filled with lively noise, can amplify these challenges.

If you notice a loved one becoming quieter than usual or frequently asking you to repeat yourself, it may stem from frustration or fatigue rather than disinterest. Be patient, and allow them to engage at their own pace. A little awareness can create a world of understanding.

Creating a Hearing-Friendly Space for Holiday Celebrations

Holidays can be noisy, but a few adjustments can make a significant difference.

Background Noise Control

Turn down the background music or TV during dinner to make conversations clearer. Avoid sitting someone with hearing loss near the kitchen, where dishes and appliances add extra noise.

Optimize Lighting

Optimized lighting significantly enhances the environment for those with hearing loss by improving visibility for lip-reading and recognizing facial expressions. Good lighting reduces shadows and glare, aiding communication, while also creating a comfortable atmosphere that encourages social interaction and reduces feelings of isolation.

Table Setup

Consider round or oval tables that allow everyone to maintain eye contact, as facial cues are crucial for those who rely on lip-reading. If someone wears hearing aids, ask if they need any help with their hearing aids, or simply offer that they would like to sit in a quieter spot.

Mindful Communication: Enhancing Conversations with Hearing Loss

When conversations overlap, even people with normal hearing can struggle to keep up. For someone with hearing loss, it’s almost impossible. To improve communication:

Take Turns Speaking & Face the Person Directly

Try to take turns speaking and avoid covering your mouth or talking while eating. Face the person directly and speak a little slower, not louder. For a family member with hearing loss or those who wear hearing aids, simply slowing down and listening/speaking with patience means a great deal to them.

Rephrase When Necessary

If someone doesn’t catch something, try rephrasing it instead of simply repeating yourself. Sometimes a different choice of words is easier to understand.

Encouraging Connection: Inviting Loved Ones to Engage Without Pressure

Hearing loss can cause people to withdraw from social events due to embarrassment or exhaustion. If you notice a loved one withdrawing, gently invite them back in without drawing attention to their challenges.

Engage One-on-One

Ask direct questions, tell stories one-on-one, or move to a quieter room for smaller conversations.

Encourage Hearing Health

If they’ve been hesitant to get their hearing checked, the holidays can be a good time to bring it up in a kind way. You can encourage them to have a baseline hearing exam or an updated hearing exam. If they have hearing aids, you can tell them how important it is to have their hearing aids checked by their audiologist.

The Gift of Inclusion During the Holidays

Thanksgiving is about gratitude and being together. The best gift you can give a loved one with hearing loss is your patience, your attention, and your willingness to include them in every laugh, story, and conversation. If you or someone you love has been struggling to hear, it might be time to schedule a hearing exam. Life’s best moments are meant to be heard, and there’s no better time to start than the holidays.