Hearing loss affects millions of individuals worldwide every single day, posing communication challenges for many. However, these challenges have increased greatly since the use of face masks and maintaining a safe distance.
It can be difficult hearing and understanding others with untreated and even treated hearing loss:
-
Inability to read lips when the face is covered
-
Trouble hearing from further away when practicing social distancing
-
Sounds can become muffled when someone is speaking behind a mask, face-shields and clear plexiglass dividers
-
Trouble hearing your devices with increased time at home watching TV, or using the phone and computer to virtually communicate with friends and family
Fortunately, there are some tips and solutions to make this ‘new normal’ more accessible.
Let others know how they can accommodate you.
Whether it is at work, shopping, or visiting loved ones for a socially distant gathering, let others know you have trouble hearing and what you need to communicate, such as using a messaging system, email or writing a note.
Use gestures to show you cannot hear.
If someone is attempting to communicate with you and you cannot hear or understand, gesture to your ear to indicate that you cannot hear what they’re saying. Most are aware of these general gestures and will understand what you’re saying.
Be kind to yourself!
Even those without hearing loss are having these difficulties but it can be even harder for someone with hearing loss or deafness. Don’t beat yourself up, it’s OK not to hear! It’s okay to misunderstand. You’re human.
Have your hearing aids checked or adjusted.
If you’re noticing increased difficulty hearing with your current hearing aid settings, let your Audiologist know. There may be adjustments that can be made to help you hear others better as well as your electronics. In addition to an adjustment, we can also suggest various accessories that can enhance the use of your hearing aids.
Have your hearing tested
If you do not wear hearing aids and are experiencing difficulty hearing, give our clinic a call and we would be happy to discuss what you’re experiencing and perform a professional Hearing Evaluation.
Utilize & benefit from using Bluetooth®.
You can stream your phone calls, TV, music and more directly to your hearing aids using Bluetooth. It’s easy once you get the hang of it – and we can show you how!
Speaking and hearing through masks is not a situation any of us could have anticipated, and one we’ll be dealing with for the forseeable future. It’s important that we all support each other through patience, empathy and acceptance. If you are struggling with communication, please do give us a call so we can help. Broadmead Hearing Clinic: 250-470-2926 or Oak Bay Hearing Clinic: 250-479-2921.