10 Tips for Handling Restaurant Noise with Hearing Aids

If you’re hearing impaired and need help understanding conversations in noisy restaurant settings, you may find it difficult to enjoy a meal with friends and family. However, with the right strategies, you can manage the noise with your hearing aids and enjoy a pleasant dining experience.

Here are a few tips for handling restaurant noise with your hearing aids:

1. Consider Choosing a Quieter Restaurant

If you’re looking for a restaurant more conducive to hearing aid use, research online to find reviews from customers or local hearing aid support groups. You can also ask your audiologist for suggestions. Generally, restaurants with booths, upholstered chairs, tablecloths, and soft lighting are quieter and provide more privacy.

2. Take a Seat in Front of the Primary Speaker

When you’re seated at the table, make sure you’re positioned so that you are facing the primary speaker. This will help you better understand the conversation without having to strain.

3. Schedule Your Meal after the Lunch Rush or before the Dinner Rush

Many restaurants can be very noisy during peak times. To minimize the noise levels, schedule your meal after the lunch rush or before the dinner rush. This way, you can avoid the busiest times of the day and enjoy a pleasant, quiet meal.

4. Ensure Your Hearing Aids Work before Your Meal

Before you leave for the restaurant, make sure your hearing aids are functioning properly. This will help you avoid any potential issues at the restaurant. Change the batteries if needed, and check to ensure your hearing aids are turned on and ready to go.

5. Take Breaks

If the noise gets to be too much, take a break. Step outside or go to the restroom for a few minutes to reset.

6. Consider Using FM Technology

One of the most beneficial tips for handling restaurant noise with hearing aids is using FM technology. FM technology can reduce background noise and make it easier to understand conversations in noisy environments. It is also a good idea to bring a pair of headphones to connect your hearing aids to the system.

7. Talk One-on-One

When dining with a group, try to break off into smaller conversations. It’s easier to hear when talking to one person at a time.

8. Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Restaurants are usually happy to accommodate customers with hearing loss and may be able to offer solutions such as quieter seating or an assistive device.

9. Ask for a Written Menu

Consider asking for a written menu so you can read it without strain. This way, you can order without having to rely on your hearing.

10. Stay Calm and Advocate for Yourself

If you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable in the restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask for a quieter table or request that the speaker slows down. You have a right to be heard and understood, and it is important to stand up for yourself.

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you can help to make dining out with hearing aids much more enjoyable. With a little planning and forethought, you can make sure that everyone at the table can enjoy their meal without having to struggle to hear what’s being said.

For hearing aids in Winnipeg, let Horizon Hearing help you. We offer hearing aid consultations, repair, and maintenance, to help you protect your hearing. Message us today for more information.