Getting your first pair of hearing aids is a life-changing moment that reconnects you with the world. The journey, which started with your initial hearing test, now enters its most rewarding phase: using your devices to engage fully in any social situation. As your partners in hearing health, our team at Munk Hearing Centre, your dedicated hearing clinic in Toronto, has compiled tips to help you use your aids with confidence everywhere you go. Here is how you can thrive in four common social situations Schedule your hearing test today.
How to Use Hearing Aids in Various Social Situations
Dining in a Busy Restaurant
The clatter of dishes and chatter from other tables can be challenging. To focus on your dinner companion, manually switch your hearing aids to their directional microphone setting. This program zeroes in on sound coming from in front of you while reducing background noise. Also, try to sit with your back to the main source of the noise.
Navigating Group Conversations
At parties or family gatherings, conversations can be dynamic and overlapping. Position yourself in the center of the group to have a better chance of seeing and hearing everyone. Don't be afraid to focus on one conversation at a time and take short breaks in a quieter space if you feel overwhelmed.
Mastering Phone Calls with Ease
Many types of hearing aids today are equipped with fantastic technology for phone calls. If you have Bluetooth-enabled aids, stream the call directly to both ears for crystal-clear audio. Alternatively, the telecoil feature can eliminate feedback and improve clarity.
Enjoying Theaters and Public Venues
Large spaces like theaters or places of worship can be difficult due to distance and acoustics. Many of these venues are equipped with a hearing loop system. Simply switch your hearing aids to the telecoil program (often marked with a "T") to have the speaker's voice streamed directly to you, cutting out echo and background noise.
SCHEDULE A HEARING EVALUATION TODAY
Confidence in social settings grows with practice. If you find certain situations remain challenging, your hearing aid settings may need a simple adjustment. Contact Munk Hearing Centre in Toronto to schedule a follow-up, and let's fine-tune your devices for your unique lifestyle.