Keeping connected virtually with friends and family during these uncertain times is incredibly important for our mental health. But what about the 3.5 million Canadians with hearing difficulties?  Staying connected can present a range of challenges, which can affect our mental health.

Hearing loss is tied to feeling isolated, depressed and anxious and when we are socially isolated, these feelings are amplified.

If you are struggling with hearing loss, you have likely already realized how much of an effect it’s having on your life at a time like this. It can make connecting through technology that much more intimidating. As well, if you are out and many are wearing masks now, you are losing visual cues that help you hear.

“Hearing aids are so small and convenient now and we can connect everything through our smartphones. Most people get them and expect someone to notice and it almost never happens,” says Andreas Seelisch, Director of Audiology at Hearing Solutions. He added, “the great thing about control through your smartphone is that in times like these we can do adjustments remotely.”

If you have just realized you are not hearing as well as you used to, here are a few tips for getting through social isolation:

1. Wear headphones or earphones (phone, computer or TV)

2. Use the closed captioning function while watching TV. This will prevent blasting the volume and could potentially save a few marriages or friendships.

3. Don’t be afraid to speak-up and let people know you can’t hear well through their mask! They might be telling you something important.

May is “Better Hearing and Speech” month and is working to highlight the importance of early detection and intervention in the treatment of communication disorders such as hearing loss.

To find out more, reach out to hearingsolutions.ca