Staying socially active is key for emotional well-being, especially for those with hearing loss. However, group settings can sometimes be challenging for hearing aid users due to background noise, overlapping conversations or poor acoustics.
With a little planning, many group activities can be enjoyable and accessible for people who wear hearing aids.
Ideal Group Activities for Hearing Aid Users
Certain types of activities naturally lend themselves to better hearing conditions and structured interaction, making them more comfortable for those using hearing aids.
Here are some group activities that work especially well:
- Board games or card games: These involve turn-taking and focused conversation, making it easier to follow what’s being said.
- Book clubs: Small group discussions with one speaker at a time are ideal for understanding and participating.
- Group exercise classes: Participants can watch other people’s movements at low-impact places like New Mission Yoga and have access to an instructor for questions.
- Volunteering: Helping in a structured setting allows for meaningful social interaction without overwhelming audio distractions.
- Art or craft groups: These hands-on activities are often quiet, with occasional conversation that can be easier to manage with hearing aids.
- Guided tours with assistive devices: Museums and cultural centers often offer audio-enhanced or loop systems that pair well with hearing aids.
- Small dinner parties or potlucks: Intimate gatherings in a controlled environment allow for better conversation and comfort.
These types of activities support both social connection and ease of communication, making them great choices for individuals with hearing aids.
Tips for Making Group Activities More Successful
Whether you’re organizing a gathering or attending as a participant with hearing loss, there are several ways to make group activities more hearing-aid-friendly.
Choose The Right Setting
- Opt for quieter venues with good lighting so faces and lips are easier to see.
- Avoid locations with loud background music or poor acoustics.
- Consider seating arrangements that allow everyone to see each other.
Encourage Better Communication
- Speak clearly and face the person when talking.
- Reduce cross-talk by encouraging one person to speak at a time.
- Use assistive listening devices when available, especially in larger groups.
Be Open and Supportive
- Let others know if you have a hearing loss so they can help create an inclusive environment.
- Ask hosts to turn off background music or reduce noise if it becomes distracting.
- Position yourself near the center of the group to follow more of the conversation.
Use Hearing Aids to Your Advantage
- Activate background noise reduction or directional microphone settings.
- Use Bluetooth® connectivity to link hearing aids with smartphones or assistive devices.
- Adjust settings through hearing aid apps if conversation becomes difficult.
Group activities can be enjoyable and fulfilling for hearing aid users when communication is prioritized and environments are thoughtfully chosen. Whether it’s game night, a group workout or a shared meal, connection is always within reach with a little planning and consideration.
Contact San Francisco Audiology today to learn more about how to best stay connected with hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test for yourself or a loved one.