December 15, 2011, Victoria, BC – Most gatherings this holiday season will include at least one person with hearing loss.  More than half of Canadians over 65 have some form of hearing loss, which can make it difficult to distinguish between competing sounds at noisy celebrations.

Connect Hearing created these tips for party hosts to ensure revellers with hearing loss don’t miss out on the festivities.

1. Make eye contact and speak clearly to avoid a muffled voice;
2. Reduce background chatter by engaging everyone in one conversation;
3. Keep background noises like music at low volumes;
4. Reduce the sound of clattering dishes with a tablecloth or placemats;
5. Seat people with hearing loss so they are backing onto a quiet, open space;
6. Ask if the hearing situation can be improved;
7. Make a quiet area available where anyone may take a break from a boisterous gathering;
8. Share tips on including people with hearing loss with those attending before they arrive.

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About Connect Hearing

Connect Hearing is Canada’s largest network of hearing professionals, on a mission for better hearing and taking action against hearing loss. The result is people who stay connected in their lives and confident in their conversations.

Media Contact

Leanne Spasnik
(250) 413-3011