The sound of the season: How to enjoy holiday music with hearing aids
The holiday season is filled with familiar sounds – carollers, jingling bells, and festive music in every store that evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy. For those with hearing loss, however, these sounds may sometimes feel muted or distorted. Fortunately, advancements in hearing aid technology now allow people to fully enjoy the richness of holiday music. If you’re looking to make the most of your hearing aids this festive season, here are some tips to ensure that the sounds of the season are as clear and vibrant as ever.
1. Modern hearing aids: A symphony of technology
Gone are the days of clunky, oversized hearing aids that offered limited sound quality. Today’s hearing aids are equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance not just speech but also complex sounds like music. Many modern devices offer specialised music programs, allowing for a more dynamic and high-fidelity listening experience. These music programs are designed to reduce distortion and improve clarity by adjusting the compression settings that are often used for speech enhancement. This allows you to hear the full range of musical frequencies, from the deep resonance of bass to the bright, crisp notes of treble.
If your hearing aid has a music setting, make sure to switch to it when listening to holiday tunes. It will allow for a richer, more immersive listening experience, letting you catch the subtle nuances that make festive music so enjoyable.
2. Adjust your hearing aid settings for different environments
The holidays often bring with them various listening environments, from cozy and quiet family gatherings to bustling end of year parties with loud background music. Each setting may need different hearing aid adjustments to help you enjoy the music without being overwhelmed by noise.
Many hearing aids have adaptive features that automatically adjust to your surroundings. However, if you prefer manual control, you can use a companion app (if your device supports it) or adjust the volume and noise reduction settings directly. For instance, reducing background noise in a loud setting can help you focus on the music more clearly.
3. Stream music directly to your hearing aids
A key advancement in hearing aids is Bluetooth streaming, allowing you to listen to holiday playlists from services like Spotify or Apple Music directly through your hearing aids, without the interference of background noise.
If your hearing aids have Bluetooth connectivity, use this feature for clearer sound and a personal listening experience. It eliminates the need for headphones or earbuds, which can sometimes interfere with your hearing aids’ functionality.
4. Attend holiday concerts and events with confidence
Live music is a staple of the holiday season, and hearing aids with directional microphones can help you focus on the performance by reducing surrounding noise. Some hearing aids also feature telecoil (T-coil) technology, allowing direct connection to sound systems at many venues for clearer audio.
Before attending an event, check if the venue is hearing-aid compatible. Many theatres, churches, and concert halls offer hearing assistance systems, ensuring you’ll enjoy every note of live performances.
5. Take care of your hearing aids during the busy holiday season
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can take a toll on your hearing aids if you’re not careful. Cold weather, moisture, and increased usage can affect their performance. Be sure to store your hearing aids in a dry, safe place when not in use. If they’re rechargeable, keep them in their charging case when not on your ears, or if battery operated, carry spare batteries with you, especially if you’ll be out for extended periods, as holiday events can sometimes lead to longer listening times. Consider using a dehumidifier if you’re in a particularly cold or wet environment.
6. Communicate with your audiologist
If you’re having trouble enjoying holiday music with your hearing aids, contact your Hearing Care Professional. They can fine-tune your devices for better music listening or adjust settings for specific sounds or environments. Your clinician can also offer tips on maximising your hearing aids’ music features.
Let the music of the season fill your heart
The festive season brings joy, warmth, and of course, music – whether it’s classic carols, holiday pop, or the soulful notes of a live choir. With today’s hearing aids, you don’t have to miss these special moments. By adjusting your devices and optimising their features, you can fully enjoy holiday music as it’s meant to be heard. Let the sounds of the season fill your heart and connect you with loved ones.
Hearing Aid Support from Knox Audiology
At Knox Audiology our team of university-qualified and experienced audiologists are committed to helping you prepare for the festive season. We provide trusted, friendly, and professional hearing services tailored to your unique needs. To learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, call 03 9800 5697 or book online.