It’s the time of year when friends and family get together to enjoy the holidays! We've put together tips for you and your loved ones to help keep your ears safe and to ensure everyone is included and able to enjoy the festive season.

1. Background Noise

For those with hearing loss, and some people with tinnitus, background noise can make it very difficult to hear conversations. If you’re having a chat with your loved one and there is a television, radio or some other noise source in the room think about asking them to turn it down or off.

2. Hearing aids

Hearing aids have got increasingly sophisticated in recent years and that’s only a good thing. Most hearing aids can now deal with some background noise and direction when it comes to speech. However, if you or your guests wear hearing aids it may be worth keeping this in mind when you’re arranging your seating plan for the big feast. Being in the middle of the table with people on either side can be advantageous for those with hearing aids.

Furthermore, ask your loved ones to speak directly to you and to stand beside or near you when doing so. This will make it easier for the hearing aid to correctly pick up what they’re saying

3. Music at Parties

This might not apply with COVID restrictions this year depending on your location but if you’re hosting over the festive season think not only of your neighbours but of your guests (and yourself!) when setting the sound levels on your speakers. Loud music can leave ears ringing for days afterward and cause permanent damage to hearing.

Keep speakers at a low to medium level and if possible have a room where there is no music. If some of your party attendees are sensitive to loud noise, have hearing loss or tinnitus they may appreciate having this space to escape the noise.

4. Stress and Tinnitus

It is well known that tinnitus can be exacerbated by stress. While the holidays are usually a time of celebrations it is also a time when tensions can run high and people get upset.

If you or a loved one suffer from tinnitus make sure to allow some time and space to just relax over the holiday season. Anything from a winter walk to some quiet meditation can provide relief from stress, and thus ringing in the ears.

5. Patience

Finally, just be patient. Tinnitus and hearing loss can be difficult issues to understand if you have not experienced them yourself. Accept that the hustle and bustle of the holidays can be stressful for everyone. A bit of understanding goes a long way during the holidays, for all involved!

As ever, get in touch on Twitter, Facebook or email info@lios-group.com. You can also download our SoundRelief by Lios app on iOS and Android. We’re always happy to hear from you. Happy Holidays, The Lios team.