At its core, Thanksgiving revolves around eating together, loved ones, and engaging in conversation. A loved one with hearing loss, even when surrounded by caring family, can easily feel disconnected during the meal.
While one might hesitate, a holiday setting is often an ideal, supportive time to begin a sensitive conversation about hearing health.
Why Thanksgiving is a perfect time for this conversation
It’s around the dinner table that memories are shared, laughter is heard, and life updates are communicated. Regrettably, for individuals whose hearing loss is untreated, this setting often proves to be challenging and isolating. When you observe a relative secluding themselves from the discussion, demanding frequent repeats, or not hearing correctly, Thanksgiving is the right time to express your concern with empathy and kindness.
It’s helpful because their most trusted family members are nearby, creating a feeling of support rather than accusation.
Creating a supportive atmosphere for enhanced interaction
Small environmental modifications, made before you start to talk, can boost your loved one’s comfort and confidence sense during the event.
- Minimize background noise. Minimize distracting sounds; keep the volume of the television or music low to reduce auditory interference.
- Give careful thought to seating arrangements. Position the loved one centrally or beside those they find easiest to talk with.
- Ensure good lighting, as well-lit areas allow people with hearing loss to more easily observe lip and facial movements.
- Tell close family relatives that you plan to mention the topic supportively so they are ready to give empathy and support.
These simple steps can ease both the practical challenges of communication and the emotional difficulty of addressing health concerns.
How to approach the topic without causing discomfort
The focus of a productive discussion should be on care and support, not on correction. Avoid turning the conversation into a “you need to fix this” moment. Rather, gently mention that you’ve seen signs of hearing difficulty and that your goal is to help, not pass judgment.
“I love that we’re all together today, and I want to make sure you can enjoy it fully. I’ve noticed it’s sometimes hard for you to hear everything that’s going on. Have you thought about having your hearing checked?”
Provide space to talk and share their thoughts. They may feel a sense of ease that someone noticed, or they may dismiss the idea. In either situation, do not pressure them. Provide your support, and if the time is right, bring it up later.
tips for giving encouragement and helpful resources
If your loved one is open to the idea of exploring solutions, be ready with a few supportive, non-intimidating suggestions:
- Discuss hearing evaluations. Let them know that a hearing test is easy and non-invasive.
- Normalize the idea by comparing hearing aids to glasses; both are tools that improve quality of life without negative stigma.
- Emphasize the benefits. Better hearing can improve relationships, reduce stress, and boost confidence.
It is not the purpose to solve all the issues during this initial discussion. The purpose is to plant the initial seed of support that can flourish over time.
A holiday of gratitude, and a step toward better hearing
We are thankful for the people we love during Thanksgiving, and occasionally that means engaging in important conversations that can result in a better quality of life. Addressing hearing loss may be awkward at first, but in a familiar and supportive setting, it can help your loved one feel recognized, supported, and prepared to move forward.
If you have a loved one is having trouble with their hearing, consider opening up the conversation during this Thanksgiving holiday. It might just lead to a life-changing difference.