Coping with hearing loss can be a difficult adjustment for you and your family members. It can also come with some perils.
What happens if a fire alarm is going off or somebody is shouting out your name but you can’t hear them? Car sounds can warn you about dangers ahead, but if you have untreated hearing loss, you won’t hear them.
Don’t worry about the “what ifs”. The first thing that a person with neglected hearing loss needs to do is get a hearing assessment. For those with hearing aids, we have a few tips to help you and your family remain safe, even when you’re not likely to be using your hearing aids.
1. Don’t go out by yourself
If possible, take somebody with you who is not dealing with hearing loss. If that isn’t possible, ask people to face you when talking to you so you will have an easier time hearing them.
2. Avoid distractions when you’re driving
It’s important to stay focused when you’re driving because you can’t depend on your hearing as much for cues. Don’t use your phone or GPS when you’re driving, just pull over if you need to reroute. Before driving, if you are concerned that you may have a problem with your hearing, call us for an evaluation.
If there are times while you’re driving that you may need to have your passengers quiet down or turn off the radio, there’s no reason to be embarrassed. It’s better to err on the side of caution!
3. Consider a service animal
For individuals who have loss of vision, epilepsy, or other problems, a service animal seems obvious. But if you’re dealing with auditory challenges, they can also be very helpful. You can be alerted to danger by a service dog. When somebody is at your door they can let you know.
They can assist you with your hearing issues and they are also excellent companions.
4. Make a plan
Before an emergency takes place, prepare a plan. Talk it over it with others. If you’re planning to move into the basement during a tornado, be sure your family knows where they’ll find you. In case of a fire, plan a designated spot that you’ll be outside the house.
This way, emergency personnel, and your family will know where to find if something were to happen.
5. Pay extra attention to visual clues while driving
Your hearing loss has most likely gotten worse over time. You might need to rely on your eyes more if you don’t routinely get your hearing aids tuned. You might not hear sirens so watch out for flashing lights. When children or pedestrians are around, be extra alert.
6. Share your limitations with family and friends
Nobody wants to disclose that they have hearing impairment, but those in your life need to be aware of it. You may need to get to safety and those around you will be able to make you aware of something you might have missed. They most likely won’t bother alerting you if they think you hear it too.
7. Keep your car well-maintained
As someone living with hearing loss, you may not be able to hear unusual thumps, clicks, or screeches when you’re driving. These sounds could indicate a mechanical issue with your vehicle. Your car could take significant damage and your safety could be in danger if these sounds aren’t dealt with. It’s a smart idea to ask a trusted 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
If you want to stay safe, having your hearing loss treated is essential. In order to identify if you need to get a hearing aid, get your hearing tested annually. Don’t allow pride, money, or time constraints deter you. Hearing aids these days are very functional, affordable, and discreet. A hearing aid can help you stay safer in all facets of your life.