Dining out can be a noisy experience. The sizzling food, calls of “Yes Chef!” and clanking glasses often make it difficult to hear people sitting right next to you. It’s hard to savor the delicious food at Table 31 when you can’t interact with your dining companions. For the 15% of U.S. adults with hearing loss, this mixture of noises becomes an impediment to an enjoyable meal out. Let’s look at how hearing aids can improve your experience and a few tips you can employ for easier dining.
How Can Hearing Aids Help?
Hearing aids can be incredibly beneficial in noisy environments. These devices collect, amplify and deliver noise directly to your ears, making conversations more accessible. Many hearing aids offer background noise suppression, a feature that can significantly reduce ambient sounds, such as background chatter or music, to help you focus on the person in front of you.
Tips for a Better Dining Experience
In addition to using hearing aids, there are a few ways you can improve your environment for easier conversation, including:
- Select a quieter venue. Opting for a quieter restaurant can minimize distractions and help you focus on conversation. Restaurants with outdoor seating or well-spaced tables are ideal. Avoid places with loud background music or those known for their bustling atmospheres. If you have a favorite restaurant that tends to be noisy, consider dining during off-peak hours.
- Choose your seat carefully. Seating can make a significant difference in your ability to follow conversations. If you’re at one end of a long table, you may struggle to understand your friend sitting at the other. Aim for a centrally located seat at a small square or round table, which helps minimize crosstalk and allows you to see everyone easily. Avoid tables near the kitchen or bar, if possible, as these areas are typically noisier.
- Use body language. Paying attention to facial cues and body language can help fill the gap when you miss a word or two.
- Be clear with your needs. Interacting with your server in a crowded room can be challenging. Don’t hesitate to ask them to come closer or repeat themselves.
By taking advantage of hearing aids, selecting a quieter venue, choosing the right seat, paying attention to body language and asking for help when you need it, your next meal out doesn’t need to be a communication nightmare. For more information on managing your hearing loss, contact All Generations Audiology, PLLC today for an appointment with one of our trusted experts.