How to Make Christmas Easier for Someone with Hearing Loss

Christmas is a time for reconnecting, sharing stories and enjoying the company of those we love. But for someone with hearing loss, the day can feel overwhelming. Busy rooms, layered conversations and festive background noise can make it harder to follow what's being said - leaving some people feeling isolated or anxious, even when surrounded by family.

For carers and family members, a few simple adjustments can help someone with hearing loss feel included, confident and relaxed throughout the festivities. Here are some practical ways to make this Christmas more hearing-friendly and enjoyable.

Create a space that makes conversations easier

Hearing loss becomes especially challenging when there's a lot of competing noise. You can make things easier by setting up the environment thoughtfully:

• Keep music low or switch it off during mealtimes
• Make sure the table or seating area is well lit
• Choose a spot where your loved one can see people clearly
• Avoid placing them near noisy appliances or doorways

These small tweaks help reduce strain and give them the best chance of following conversations comfortably.

Use communication habits that feel natural and respectful

Good communication doesn't need to be exaggerated or obvious - just kind and thoughtful.

Try to:

• Face them when speaking so they can see your facial cues
• Say their name or gently get their attention before you begin
• Speak clearly and at a steady pace
• Rephrase rather than repeat the same sentence if they miss something
• Pause occasionally to give them time to catch up

These simple habits can make festive conversations much more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Make Christmas dinner more hearing friendly

Christmas meals can be lively - which is wonderful but also challenging for someone with hearing loss. A few small considerations can make a big difference: 

• Keep groups smaller if possible
• Encourage people to take turns speaking rather than talking over one another
• Slow down the pace of conversation during toasts or important moments
• Check discreetly whether they're hearing well from where they're sitting

These gestures help your loved one feel included without putting them on the spot.

Help your loved one get the best from their hearing aids

If the person you care for uses hearing aids, festive gatherings can feel easier when their devices are working well. You might gently help with:

• Checking they're wearing their hearing aids
• Making sure they're fully charged or have fresh batteries
• Giving them time to adjust if they're new to wearing hearing aids

If they're still getting used to new devices, you might find our guide to adjusting to hearing aids helpful.

And if they have concerns about how hearing aids work or what they should expect from using them, our blog on common misconceptions can offer some reassurance. 

Supporting them gently can make the day feel far less tiring.

Keep moments calm and meaningful

Sometimes the most supportive thing you can do is create quieter, calmer spaces during the day. A one-to-one chat in a peaceful room, a quiet walk, or a warm drink away from the crowd can help someone with hearing loss connect more fully and comfortably.

Checking in softly - "Are you hearing alright from there?" - can help them feel cared for without drawing attention.

A Christmas where everyone feels included

Supporting someone with hearing loss doesn't require big changes - just thoughtful adjustments that make gatherings feel calmer, clearer and more enjoyable.

If the person you care for struggles to hear even with these changes in place, it may be a good time to explore whether hearing aids could help improve their day-to-day confidence.

Hearing aids and prices