How to Support Your Loved One With Hearing Loss During the Holiday Season
Practical, heartfelt ways to help everyone feel connected, included, and calm
The holiday season is full of gatherings, conversations, music, and laughter—but for individuals with hearing loss, it can also be one of the most overwhelming times of the year. Busy rooms, background noise, and rapid-fire conversations can make communication difficult and leave loved ones feeling isolated or exhausted.
The good news? A few thoughtful adjustments can make the holidays more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone. Here are supportive, SLP- and audiology-friendly tips to help your loved one with hearing loss feel heard, connected, and confident this season.
1. Set the Scene for Successful Communication
Small environment changes can make a big difference.
Improve Lighting
Good lighting helps with lip-reading and facial cues. If hosting, avoid dim or candle-only settings.
Reduce Background Noise
Lower the volume on holiday music, turn off the TV, or move conversations away from loud appliances or bustling kitchens.
Create “Quiet Zones”
Provide a quieter room or smaller seating area where people can talk without competing noise.
2. Get Their Attention First
Before speaking, gently say their name, tap their shoulder, or make eye contact. This gives them time to orient and reduces missed information right at the start.
3. Support Communication Without Overdoing It
You don’t need to talk louder—just smarter.
Face Them Directly
Avoid talking while turning away, eating, or walking.
Speak Clearly and Naturally
Over-enunciating can distort speech. Clear, calm pacing helps more than volume.
Rephrase Instead of Repeating
If they didn’t catch something, try saying it in a different way rather than repeating the same words again.
4. Be Mindful of Group Dynamics
Holiday gatherings often mean fast, overlapping conversations.
Sit your loved one where they can see many people’s faces (corner seats work great).
Slow down group conversations when possible.
Take turns speaking so no one has to track multiple voices at once.
5. Include Them in the Fun and Planning
Ask what would help them feel most comfortable.
Some ideas they may appreciate:
Sharing the menu or activity plan ahead of time so they can learn names or terms
Using text messages for games or instructions
Positioning themselves near supportive communication partners
A simple “What would make today easier for you?” goes a long way.
6. Encourage Use of Hearing Technology
If your loved one uses hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive devices, remind them to bring:
Extra batteries/chargers
Cleaning tools
Bluetooth accessories
Remote microphones (in noisy gatherings, these help tremendously!)
Offer a quiet space if they need a break from sensory overload.
7. Advocate Gently in Group Settings
You can model supportive communication for the whole group:
“Let’s all take turns so everyone can follow.”
“Let’s move to the living room—it’s quieter for conversation.”
Small statements normalize inclusivity and reduce pressure on your loved one to advocate constantly.
8. Accept That Fatigue Is Real
Listening with hearing loss is work.
Your loved one may need breaks, shorter visits, or even to leave early. Offer understanding, not pressure, if they step away to recharge.
9. Celebrate in a Variety of Ways
Not every meaningful holiday moment has to be loud or fast-paced.
Try:
Cozy movie nights with captions
Baking together one-on-one
A slower brunch instead of a big dinner
Quiet walks to see lights
Small-group gatherings
Connection doesn’t depend on volume.
10. Lead With Empathy and Presence
Above all else, show patience, kindness, and willingness to adjust. Hearing loss can be isolating—but the support of loved ones restores confidence and belonging.
Your efforts tell them:
“You matter. Your presence matters. And we want you fully included.”
