At its core, Thanksgiving revolves around shared meals, family members, and engaging in conversation. But when a loved one is dealing with hearing loss, they might feel disconnected at the mealtime gathering, even surrounded by people who care.
A holiday gathering, despite its formality, provides a perfectly supportive opportunity to initiate a dialogue about their hearing health.
Why Thanksgiving is a perfect time for this conversation
The dinner table is where stories are shared, humor is enjoyed, and news is shared. Someone with untreated hearing loss may find this conversational environment both frustrating and isolating. Should you perceive a loved one becoming distant from discussions, consistently needing things repeated, or failing to hear correctly more than usual, Thanksgiving provides a chance to show supportive concern.
It’s helpful because their most trusted family members are nearby, creating a feeling of support rather than accusation.
Creating a supportive setting for improved dialogue
Before initiating the talk, small changes to your environment can make a big difference for your loved one’s comfort and assurance during the gathering:
- Lower background noise. Minimize background noise by keeping the TV or music volume low to lessen auditory distractions.
- Give careful thought to seating arrangements. Position the loved one centrally or beside those they find easiest to talk with.
- Use bright illumination. Well-lit spaces make it less straining for someone with hearing loss to read facial expressions and lip movements.
- Let close family members that you plan to mention the topic supportively so they are ready to add their empathy and support.
These simple adjustments help ease both communication challenges and any emotional tension that may accompany discussing health topics.
How to approach the topic without causing discomfort
To ensure a positive outcome, approach the topic with care rather than a desire to correct or fix. Avoid turning the conversation into a “you need to fix this” moment. Instead, softly convey that you’ve noticed they are struggling to hear and your motivation is support, not criticism.
“It’s wonderful that we are together today, and I hope you are enjoying every moment. I’ve noticed you struggle to hear at times. Has getting your hearing tested crossed your mind?”
Encourage them to speak and give them adequate time to reply. It’s possible they will feel relief that the issue has been acknowledged, or they might simply dismiss it. Don’t force the issue in any case. Show them your support and only bring up the topic again if the need arises.
Offering support and helpful information
If your loved one shows willingness to investigate solutions, have a few helpful, non-threatening suggestions prepared:
- Bring up hearing evaluations. Let them know that a hearing test is straightforward and non-invasive.
- Normalize the idea by comparing hearing aids to glasses; both are tools that improve quality of life without negative stigma.
- Offer to join them for the appointment. The knowledge they won’t be alone can be the most impactful element.
- Better hearing can lead to better relationships, decreased stress, and enhanced confidence, so be sure to emphasize these benefits.
You shouldn’t aim to resolve the entire situation in a single talk. Rather, aim to plant a seed of support that has the potential to grow.
making thanksgiving a time for thanks and an opportunity to enhance hearing
It’s a time to be grateful for the people we love during Thanksgiving, and occasionally that means engaging in important conversations that can result in a better quality of life. Bringing up hearing loss may feel uncomfortable at first, but doing so in a warm, familiar setting can help your loved one feel seen, supported, and ready to take the next step.
If you have a loved one is having trouble with their hearing, consider opening up the conversation during this Thanksgiving holiday. It may be a life-changing improvement.
