For you and the people you love, living with hearing loss can be difficult to adjust to. It can also come with some hazards.
What happens if a smoke detector is sounding or someone is yelling out your name but you’re unable to hear them? If you have untreated hearing loss, you won’t be able to hear those car sounds that may be signaling an impending hazard.
But the “what ifs” aren’t something you need to stress over. The first thing that somebody with neglected hearing loss should do is get a hearing assessment. For those who wear hearing aids, we have some tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe, even when you’re not likely to be using your hearing aids.
1. Don’t go out alone
Bring someone with healthy hearing out with you if you can. If you need to go out alone, ask people to come closer and look at you when they talk.
2. Avoid distractions while driving
Because you can rely on your hearing less, it’s important to minimize other distractions behind the wheel. Pull over if you need to plot a route and stay away from your phone and GPS. Before driving, if you are worried that you might have an issue with your hearing, call us for an assessment.
If there are times while you’re driving that you might 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 dog
You think of service animals as helpful for people with visual impairment, epilepsy, or other conditions. But if you’re dealing with auditory issues, they can also be very helpful. You can be warned about danger by a service dog. They can let you know when somebody is at your door.
They can help you with your hearing problems and they are also wonderful companions.
4. Make a plan
Before an emergency comes about, make a plan. Discuss it with others. As an example, make sure your family is aware that you will be in the basement in the case of a tornado. Plan a specific location outside your house in the case of a fire.
This way, emergency personnel, and your family will know where you will be if something were to happen.
5. When you’re driving, pay attention to visual clues
Over time, it’s likely that your hearing loss has gotten worse. You may need to rely on your eyes more if you don’t routinely have your hearing aids tuned. Be alert to flashing lights on the road since you may not hear sirens. When kids or pedestrians are around, stay extra vigilant.
6. Share your limitations with family and friends
It might be tough to admit, but it’s important that people in your life know about your hearing issues. You might need to get to safety and people around you will be able to warn you about something you might have missed. If they’re not aware that you can’t hear, they will think that you hear it too.
7. Keep your car well-maintained
As someone living with hearing loss, you might not be able to hear strange thumps, clicks, or screeches when you drive. These noises could suggest a mechanical problem with your vehicle. If dismissed, they can do long-term damage to your car or put you in danger. 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. Address your hearing loss
This is the most imperative thing you can do to stay safe. In order to know if you require a hearing aid, get your hearing screened annually. Don’t hesitate because of time constraints, money, or pride. Hearing aids nowadays are very functional, affordable, and discreet. A hearing aid can help you stay safer in all facets of your life.
