At its core, Thanksgiving revolves around shared meals, family members, and engaging in conversation. A loved one with hearing loss, though seated by caring family, can easily feel disconnected at the table.
While it may not seem like the “right time” to discuss something so personal, a holiday gathering can actually be a soft, supportive moment to open the door to a discussion about hearing health.
The Logic Behind Choosing Thanksgiving for a Hearing Health Conversation
It’s around the dinner table that memories are shared, laughter is sparked, and life updates are communicated. Someone with untreated hearing loss may find this conversational environment both frustrating and isolating. If you observe a relative withdrawing from the discussion, demanding frequent repeats, or not hearing correctly, Thanksgiving can be the right time to voice your concern with empathy and kindness.
Because those they trust most are present, the individual is more likely to feel a sense of encouragement and less like they are being corrected.
Preparing the setting for easier communication
Making a few simple environmental changes before the conversation can significantly help your loved one’s confidence and comfort throughout the gathering.
- Lower background noise. Keep auditory distractions to a minimum; this means keeping the TV or music volume low.
- Be mindful of placement. Place your loved one in the middle of the table or close to people they talk with most easily.
- Provide good lighting, as well-lit areas allow people with hearing loss to more easily observe lip and facial movements.
- Communicate your intentions. Discreetly let close family members understand you’d like to bring up the topic in a supportive way so they can offer aid with empathy.
Applying these straightforward adjustments will ease communication barriers and help reduce the emotional pressure of talking about health.
How to approach the topic without causing discomfort
The focus of a productive discussion should be on care and support, not on correction. Ensure the discussion does not become a directive demanding immediate change. Instead, gently mention that you’ve perceived hearing difficulty and that your goal is to help, not pass judgment.
“It’s wonderful that we are together today, and I hope you are enjoying every moment. I’ve noticed you struggle to hear at times. Has getting your hearing tested crossed your mind?”
Encourage them to speak and give them adequate time to reply. They might feel relieved that you noticed, or they could ignore the comment. No matter what happens, avoid pushing the matter. Offer your support and return to the topic if needed.
Providing morale and tools for the next steps
If your loved one is willing to consider the idea of exploring solutions, be ready with a few supportive, non-intimidating suggestions:
- Suggest a hearing evaluation, explaining that the test is simple and non-invasive.
- Make the topic seem normal of hearing aids by comparing them to glasses, which similarly improve life quality without causing stigma.
- Point out the advantages: improved relationships, reduced stress levels, and a boost in self-assurance are all outcomes of better hearing.
Your objective is not to fix everything immediately in this one conversation. It’s to plant a seed of support that can flourish.
How this season of gratitude can be a step towards improved hearing
The spirit of Thanksgiving is centered on being grateful for our loved ones, and this sometimes involves having necessary discussions that ultimately improve their lives. While discussing hearing loss can be initially uncomfortable, addressing it in a familiar, warm environment helps your loved one feel seen, supported, and ready for action.
This Thanksgiving, if a person you care for is facing hearing difficulties, think about starting the discussion. The outcome could be a truly life-changing difference.