Strategies & Realities - Hearing Loss in Social Settings

Smile, shut-up and don't interfere with the conversation by asking. Occasionally, I feign the reaction that is being shared by others. Enjoy the company.

I try to position myself in the center of the group, so I can equally "hear" on both sides of the conversation. I'm not ashamed to say that I can hear everybody better if I'm in the middle. Also, I repeatedly ask for a repeat if I miss something in the communication. Don't be ashamed. It's best to be honest rather than miss out!

If a seated affair, i try to avoid a table in the middle of the room. A smile and a nod helps,but really large gatherings and especially if extremely high ceilings have no satisfactory solution.

@adamsrw592

Sometimes that’s what you have to do…depends on the people around you, the acoustics, the venue etc. Even if you have assisted technology it always doesn’t work well enough in certain situations. There are times, rather than get stressed out, I sit back and enjoy the company as you say.

FL Mary

@decabea

I agree and I am happy that others find ways to participate in conversations. Aside from all the strategies we use to optimize our hearing and our use of technologies, it depends on how severe one’s hearing loss is. I relax and accept what I cannot do, ask occasional questions when appropriate . I have had progressive hearing loss for over 40 years and know every “trick” in the book. I am not afraid to let anyone know of my hearing loss and, while most people are accommodating, I also don’t want to interject too often when others are so enjoying a lively good time. Do I miss those days? Sure I do. But I am so fortunate in that everyone wants me to be there anyway. I enjoy the vibe and am not feeling sorry for myself and am not stressing out. The phrase “ It is what it is “ is not meant to indicate a defeatist attitude. It’s reality for me and I know people sense that and ,yes, love me for that.

So cheers to everyone and where’s the next party? lol.

FL Mary

Social gatherings are difficult for people with hearing loss. Even family gatherings can be stressful. How do you feel about this? I would love to know more about the coping strategies you use.

Does anyone feel their hearing problems vary with the hunidity?

@imallears
“It is what it is “ is not meant to indicate a defeatist attitude. It’s reality for me and I know people sense that and ,yes, love me for that.”
AMEN!!!
I've read some information about hearing aids making it easier to following group conversations. Any truth to that?
I don't have a hearing aid and I have trouble following conversations in a group situation. from what I read I thought maybe a hearing aid would solve that problem but I guess not.
Take care kids,
Jake

I try to do the best that I can in group situations but like previous posters said it can just be easier to sit back and just enjoy being part of the group instead of trying to hear everything. I get sad that I can’t participate but I’ve learned to live with it.

I do know that my hearing fluctuates a bit. Some days I hear pretty decent (with the help of aids) and other days I struggle. I can mostly tell when it is because of ear wax buildup and when I need to clean my aids. I do know humidity and moisture can have an effect on hearing aids. I am assuming that is what you are talking about?