It can be challenging for you and your family to adjust to living with hearing loss. It might even be dangerous at times. What happens if you can’t hear a call for help or a fire alarm? Hazards may be signaled by car noises, but if your hearing loss is untreated, you won’t be able to hear them.
Don’t worry yourself sick about hypothetical scenarios. The first thing you should do if you have untreated hearing loss is to have a hearing test. If you wear hearing aids, here are ten safety suggestions to keep you and your family secure even when you’re not likely to be donning them.
For Those Who Are Hard of Hearing, Get Personalized Alarms
The sound of a clock on your nightstand probably comes to mind when you think of an alarm, but modern alarms are much more sophisticated than that. You can now purchase devices that not only make noise but also flashlights like the strobes you see in commercial buildings. Whether you need a carbon monoxide alarm or a smoke detector, make sure the gadget is accessible to people with hearing loss.
Would you be able to hear someone tapping on your door? Would you be surprised to discover that a close buddy simply walked straight in if you don’t secure your door? Being unable to hear can cause guests to surprise you or perhaps cause you to miss them. However, you can install motion detectors with flashing lights to let you know when someone is at a door or window.
If you have a smartphone, you can also download an app that vibrates your phone to let you know when someone is at the door.
Think of a Service Animal
You may imagine that service animals are beneficial for those who experience epilepsy, visual impairment or other conditions. But people who have hearing problems can also benefit greatly from them. You can teach a service dog to warn you of danger. When someone knocks on your door, they can let you know. They are not only able to assist with these issues but also make wonderful companions.
Plan Ahead
Have a plan in place before a crisis arises. Talk about it with others. As soon as you decide to seek shelter in the basement during a tornado, let your family know where to find you. Plan a specific area outside the house where you will be in the event of a fire. This way, if something went wrong and you got stuck, your family and the emergency services could help you right away.
Discover Your Neighbors
Sadly, many residents in many areas nowadays are unfamiliar with their neighbors. Both those with normal hearing and those with hearing loss are at risk because of this disconnect. Look for opportunities to interact with the neighbors of your home. Inform one another if you notice any questionable activity that needs your attention. One never knows when they might come in handy!
Provisions on the Phone for Emergencies
Numerous aids are available for phone calls for those with hearing loss. The usage of video relay systems may be advantageous for those who have severe hearing loss or who are partially or completely deaf. With this helpful service, an employee will translate for you in American Sign Language and inform emergency services of your needs.
There are hearing aids that can link straight to cellphones thanks to more recent technologies. Your hearing aids receive conversations immediately through this wireless connection, eliminating any communication issues. Hearing aids that are compatible with smartphones allow you to communicate more effectively and clearly, which is incredibly helpful in an emergency.
Tell Your Family and Friends About Your Limitations
Nobody wants to confess they have hearing loss, but your loved ones need to be aware of it. They can let you know about something you might not hear so you can run for cover. They will presume that you can hear if they are unaware of your hearing loss.
Addressing Hearing Loss
The most important thing you can do to keep safe is this. Get your hearing checked every year to find out if you need an assistive device when your hearing loss is severe enough. You can feel safer at home, at work, in public places, when driving, shopping and in parks with a hearing aid. If you want to get your hearing tested to ensure you are safe at home, contact the team at Norriton Hearing Center by calling us today at (610) 228-2779.
