A cozy birthday, a busy get-together, a family dinner where everyone is talking through each other – for most people, a party. But if you’re hard of hearing? Then sometimes it’s more like top sport. The buzz, the loud music, the quick jokes you just don’t catch … it can be quite tiring and frustrating.
Still, you want to be there. After all, social life doesn’t stop because you have impaired hearing. Fortunately, there are ways to keep enjoying parties without coming home completely exhausted or having to shout “what are you saying?” every time you go out. In this blog: practical tips, recognizable situations ánd how to better prepare yourself for that busy, fun night out.
Why are parties so exhausting when you are hearing impaired?
For those with impaired hearing, parties are a challenge. And that’s because of a combination of factors:
- Lots of ambient noise: voices, music, glasses, murmurs.
- Multiple conversations at once: leaving you not knowing what to focus on.
- Quick turns in conversations, humor or inside jokes you miss.
- Little visual support when it is dark or people are farther away.
- Extra concentration: your brain has to work really hard to follow everything.
The result? You are often devastated after a party. Not only physically, but also mentally. And sometimes you feel left out or insecure, even though no one does it on purpose.
What can you do before the party?
1. Let it be known
It sounds simple, but it works: indicate in advance that you are hearing impaired. Many people like to take it into account, but just don’t know it. For example, ask to be seated at a quieter table, or not to set the music to dance floor mode.
2. Check your hearing aids
If you wear a hearing aid: make sure the batteries (or battery) are full, your filters are clean and your settings are up to date. Some devices have a party mode or noise reduction that you can turn on. In doubt? Ask your hearing care professional for help setting them up.
3. Position yourself smartly
Don’t stand right next to the speaker. Find a spot where you have an overview and are not overwhelmed by sound. Corners or tables at the edge of the room are often quieter than in the middle of the crowd.
During the party: here’s how to save yourself better
1. Choose your interlocutor(s) deliberately
It is almost impossible to talk to five people at once in a noisy room. Rather, focus on one-on-one conversations, or talk to people you know well (and know how they talk). Then it’s easier to hold the thread.
2. Use visual cues
Look closely at facial expressions, lip movements and body language. In a crowded room, a person’s facial expressions often say more than words. Make sure you have a good view of the person you are talking to – that is, not with your back to the light or in the dark.
3. Ask for repetition – but also provide context
“What did you say?” is fine, but even more helpful is, “I heard something about vacation, what exactly did you say?” This way you help get the conversation going AND avoid asking the same question ten times.
4. Use a hearing amplifier as a supplement
Some people use (in addition to or instead of a hearing aid) a hearing amplifier for these kinds of situations. It focuses on conversations nearby and suppresses background noise. It’s a great tool if you don’t want a hearing aid just yet, or just need some extra support now and then.
5. Give yourself a break
Going outside, to the bathroom, or finding a quiet place is not weakness. It is self-care. Your brain needs rest to process all the stimuli. A few minutes of silence in between can really make all the difference.
After the party: de-stimulate and recharge
Don’t expect to feel refreshed immediately after a party. Allow yourself recovery time. Some people literally have a “social hangover” the next day: headache, tired, irritable. That’s not weird – you used up a lot of energy. Be kind to yourself. Take a hot shower, have a leisurely breakfast, take a walk. And be proud: you were there, despite the challenge.
And what can others do?
Just a little awareness of your surroundings makes a world of difference. If you don’t have a hearing loss yourself, but someone close to you does:
- Speak clearly and calmly, without exaggerating.
- Look at someone while talking.
- Don’t talk over each other in groups.
- Ask if the volume can be turned down.
- Afterwards, ask how it went. That gesture is often greatly appreciated.
In conclusion
Parties and hearing loss are not always an ideal combination, but it doesn’t have to be an impossible task either. With a little preparation, smart tips and some understanding from those around you, you can still participate fully.
Maybe it takes a little more energy than it used to – but you also get something in return: connection, companionship and a sense of belonging. And that is priceless.
Are you curious about hearing amplifiers, rechargeable hearing aids or tips for party settings on your hearing aid? We’d love to think with you. Because no matter how you hear, everyone deserves a party.
