For you and the people you love, coping with hearing loss can be difficult to adjust to. In some cases, it can even be unsafe.
What’s going to happen if you can’t hear a smoke detector or somebody calling your name? If you have untreated hearing loss, you won’t be able to hear those car sounds that may be signaling an impending threat.
But the “what ifs” aren’t something you need to worry about. If you have neglected hearing loss, getting a hearing test is the first thing you need to do. For individuals who use hearing aids, we have a few recommendations to help you and your loved ones remain safe, even when you’re not likely to be wearing your hearing aids.
1. Take a friend with you when you go out
Bring somebody with healthy hearing out with you if you can. If you have to go out by yourself, ask people to come closer and look at you when they talk.
2. Stay focused when you drive
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. If you think you have an issue with your hearing aid, come see us before driving.
Don’t feel ashamed if you need to turn off the radio or request that passengers stop talking during more decisive moments of your drive. It’s better to err on the side of caution!
3. Consider a service dog
For individuals who have visual impairment, epilepsy, or other problems, a service dog seems obvious. But they can also be very helpful to those with auditory issues. You can be warned about danger by a service dog. When someone is at your door they can let you know.
They can help you with your hearing problems and they are also good companions.
4. Make a plan
Before an emergency takes place, make a plan. Speak with people in your life about it. If you plan to go into the basement during a tornado, make sure your family knows where they’ll find you. In case of a fire, choose a delegated spot that you’ll be outside the house.
This way, if something were to go wrong and you became trapped, family and emergency personnel can act quickly to help you.
5. When you’re driving, pay attention to visual clues
Your hearing loss has likely gotten worse over time. If your hearing aids aren’t regularly fine-tuned, you might find yourself depending more on your eyes. You might not hear sirens so watch out for flashing lights. Be extra diligent when pedestrians are nearby.
6. Share your hearing trouble with friends and family
It may be tough to admit, but it’s essential that people in your life are aware of your hearing loss. They can alert you to something you might not hear so that you can go to safety. They most likely won’t bother alerting you if they assume you hear it too.
7. Keep your car well-maintained
As a person living with hearing loss, you might not be able to hear unusual thumps, clicks, or screeches when you drive. These can signal a serious problem. Your car could take serious damage and your safety could be in danger if these sounds aren’t dealt with. 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. Address your hearing loss
This is the most imperative thing you can do to stay safe. Have your hearing tested annually to identify when your hearing loss is extensive enough to require an assistive device. Don’t allow pride, money, or time constraints stop you. Modern hearing aids are discreet, functional, and very affordable. A hearing aid can help you remain safer in all facets of your life.
