For you and the people you love, coping with hearing loss can take some work to adjust to. It can also come with some perils.
What’s going to happen if you can’t hear a fire alarm or someone calling your name? Car sounds can indicate dangers ahead, but if you have untreated hearing loss, you won’t hear them.
But the “what ifs” aren’t something you should stress over. The first thing that a person with neglected hearing loss needs to do is get a hearing assessment. Here are some recommendations to help keep individuals with hearing aids and their loved ones safer whether or not they’re wearing their hearing aid.
1. Bring a friend with you when you go out
If you can, take somebody with you who is not dealing with hearing loss. If that’s not possible, ask people to face you when speaking to you so that you will have an easier time hearing them.
2. Avoid distractions when you’re driving
Because you can depend less on your hearing, it’s important to reduce other distractions when driving. Pull over if you need to plot a route and stay away from your GPS and phone. If you think you have an issue with your hearing aid, come see us before driving.
Don’t feel embarrassed if you have to turn off the radio or ask passengers to stop talking during more decisive moments of your drive. Safety first!
3. Think about getting a service animal
You think of service dogs as helpful for individuals with loss of vision, epilepsy, or other conditions. But if you have auditory issues, they can also be really helpful. You can be warned about danger by a service dog. They can let you know when somebody is at your door.
Not only can they assist you with these problems, but they also make a terrific companion.
4. Have a plan
Know what you’ll do before an emergency hits. Talk it over it with other people. As an example, make sure your family is aware that you will be in the basement in the case of a tornado. In case of a fire, choose a delegated spot that you’ll be outside the house.
This way, emergency personnel, and your family will know where you will be if something were to go wrong.
5. Pay extra attention to visual cues when driving
Over time, it’s likely that your hearing loss has worsened. You might need to depend on your eyes more if you don’t routinely get your hearing aids tuned. You may not hear sirens so watch out for flashing lights. When children or pedestrians are around, be extra alert.
6. Let friends and family know about your hearing trouble
No one wants to admit that they have hearing loss, but those close to you need to be aware of it. They can warn you about something you might not hear so that you can go to safety. They most likely won’t bother alerting you if they think you hear it too.
7. Be vigilant about the maintenance of your vehicle
Your car may start making strange sounds that your hearing loss stops you from hearing. These noises could point to a mechanical problem with your vehicle. If neglected, they can do long-term damage to your car or put you in danger. It’s a good idea to ask a trustworthy mechanic for their opinion on the condition of your vehicle when you bring it in for an oil change or inspection.
8. Treat your hearing loss
This is the most important thing you can do to remain safe. Have your hearing tested yearly to determine when your hearing loss is severe enough to require an assistive device. Don’t wait because of time constraints, money, or pride. Modern hearing aids are discreet, functional, and very affordable. A hearing aid can help you stay safer in all facets of your life.
