Signs Your Loved Ones May Be Experiencing Hearing Loss and How to Support Them This Christmas

The festive season is a time for togetherness, laughter, and conversations shared with loved ones. For many families across the UK, Christmas can also highlight an often-overlooked issue: hearing loss. With more than 40% of UK adults over 50 experiencing hearing loss, the holidays can be a particularly challenging time for communication at home.

Research from RNID reveals that 1 in 10 people aged 18-24 say their family member’s hearing loss makes Christmas more stressful for the whole family. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By recognising the signs of hearing loss and knowing how to provide support, you can help your loved ones feel included and valued during the festivities.

Spotting the Signs of Hearing Loss

1) Trouble Following Conversations

Hearing loss often begins gradually and may only affect certain sounds, making it tricky for someone to notice the problem themselves. One of the clearest signs is frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Your loved one might attribute this to others “mumbling” rather than acknowledging that their hearing might be the issue.

Children’s voices, for example, are higher-pitched and can be harder to hear, whereas lower-pitched sounds, like the rumble of thunder, might still be clear.

How to Help:

• Encourage your loved one to see an audiologist for a  professional hearing assessment.
• When speaking to them, slow down your speech, use simple sentences, and pause frequently.
• Face them directly while speaking and avoid covering your mouth, as this helps them pick up visual cues.

2) Turning Up the Volume on Devices

If the TV volume is creeping higher than usual or your loved one struggles to hear through headphones, this could indicate hearing loss.

While turning up the volume might seem like a quick fix, it’s not a sustainable solution. Loud audio can harm hearing further and make the experience uncomfortable for others in the room.

How to Help:

• Suggest using subtitles to make TV viewing easier for everyone.
• Avoid excessively loud volumes on any device.
• Support them in scheduling an appointment with an audiologist, who can provide tailored solutions.

3) Creating an Inclusive Christmas Experience

For families navigating hearing loss, small changes can make a big difference. Here’s how you can foster a welcoming and inclusive environment during the holidays:

• Arrange the seating thoughtfully: Ensure your loved one is seated where they can clearly see and hear everyone, such as near the centre of the table or facing the group.
• Minimise background noise: Festive music or bustling conversations can create auditory chaos. Keep background noise at a manageable level.
• Be patient: Remember, your loved one might feel self-conscious or frustrated. Show empathy and avoid drawing attention to their hearing difficulties in a way that might embarrass them.

4) Seeking Professional Support

Hearing loss doesn’t have to hold your loved ones back from enjoying the holiday season or everyday life. A visit to an audiologist can help them explore options like hearing aids or other assistive devices, tailored to their unique needs.

By recognising the signs early and offering your support, you can make this Christmas—and every gathering—more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Book an appointment today.

This festive season, let’s turn up the volume on kindness and inclusivity, ensuring all voices are heard and cherished.