The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year. It’s a time filled with twinkling lights, sweet-smelling treats, and jolly melodies that instantly put us in the holiday spirit. However, for those with hearing aids, the sounds of the season might not always be something to look forward to. The increased volume and complexity of holiday music can make it difficult to fully enjoy the season, but we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for managing the noise levels of holiday music so that you can fully enjoy the sounds of the season without sacrificing your hearing health.

Opt for Lower Volume:

It’s no secret that holiday music can be quite loud. However, listening to music at a high volume can be harmful to your hearing health. Instead, opt for a lower volume to lessen the risk of damaging your hearing. Most mobile devices and audio systems allow you to adjust the volume, so take advantage of this feature. Start with a lower volume and work your way up until you find a volume that’s comfortable for you.

Choose the Right Venue:

When going out to see live music or attending an event, choose a venue that is appropriate for your hearing needs. Venues with high ceilings, such as churches or concert halls, can often amplify sound, making it harder for those with hearing loss to hear clearly. Conversely, venues with low ceilings, such as small restaurants or cafes, can muffle sound. When choosing a venue, consider the size of the space and the acoustics, and make sure it’s a good fit for your hearing needs.

Take Breaks:

Listening to music for an extended period can become fatiguing, especially if you have hearing loss. Take breaks every few songs to give your ears time to rest. Use this break to step outside or go to another room to give your ears a break from the noise levels. If you find yourself at a venue that doesn’t allow for breaks, consider stepping back, away from the music, to give your ears a rest.

Utilize Assistive Devices:

Assistive listening devices (ALDs) can help improve your hearing in challenging situations. Most hearing aid users have an option through their hearing aids to utilize the hearing loop, which connects directly to the music or PA system. If the venue doesn’t have a hearing loop or PA system, there are also FM or Bluetooth assisted systems that can connect with a hearing aid for better hearing.

Speak Up:

Don’t be afraid to speak up if the volume or quality of the music isn’t up to your preferred standards. Try talking to the sound engineer or a staff member at the venue and ask if they can adjust the volume or improve the acoustics. Communication is key, and speaking up can lead to a better listening experience for you and others in attendance.

Conclusion:

The sounds of the holidays can bring joy to your heart and put you in the holiday spirit, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your hearing health. By following these tips on how to manage the noise levels of holiday music, you can enjoy all the sounds of the season without risking damage to your ears. Remember, there’s no need to sacrifice your hearing for the sounds of the holidays.