“Hear” for the Holidays: Tips for Better Listening

‘Tis the season for family gatherings, turkey dinners, and plenty of social get-togethers, whether in person or on Zoom. As we express gratitude for our loved ones, we may find ourselves in situations where hearing becomes challenging. Here are some tips to help you improve your listening experience during the holiday season.

Choose the Right Setting: If you’re meeting at a local restaurant, consider arriving a little early to avoid excessive background noise. The more crowded the restaurant, the louder it gets. Opt for a table by a window or away from occupied tables for a quieter environment.
Large Group Conversations: When meeting with a large group, it can be difficult to hear people at the other end of the table, especially with multiple conversations happening simultaneously. Focus on one conversation at a time, as participating in multiple conversations can be challenging.
Seek a Quieter Space: If you’re in someone’s home and background noise or children running around are distracting, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the person you’re speaking with if you can move to a quieter area. This will allow for a more meaningful conversation.
Be Specific about What You Didn’t Hear: When you have difficulty hearing someone, instead of simply saying “what” or “please repeat that,” be specific about the part you missed. This helps the speaker clarify and reduces the need to repeat the entire sentence.
Communicate Your Needs: Take a proactive approach by letting others know how they can help enhance your listening experience. Simple adjustments such as turning down the holiday music or increasing the room’s lighting can make a significant difference.

If you have concerns about your hearing, we encourage you to contact Sophisticated Hearing for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. There are various technologies available that can assist in improving your hearing. For those already using hearing aids, Dr. Olson can make adjustments using Real Ear Measurement, ensuring proper amplification of speech sounds.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with delightful sounds!

Warm regards,

Dr. Olson and the Sophisticated Hearing staff