As Christmas is around the corner, here at Signature we thought we would share the ways in which you can be more deaf aware during this festive period. No one should be left out this Christmas, and efficient preparation can make all the difference.
Here are six ways you can make the day the best for everyone:
- A round table:
Being able to see everyone around the table is crucial for communication on Christmas day. By having a circular table, everyone’s faces can be clearly viewed, making lipreading easier. Indeed, this will ensure that everyone, hearing and deaf, can have the best possible day.
Even though this will maximise clear communication, individuals should also be prepared to repeat themselves or explain themselves in a different way.
- Keep background noise low:
Indeed, Christmas music and carols are a key part of the festive period. However, if you are playing music, keep the volume low. This will make it much easier for those who are hard of hearing to hear. Additionally, those who rely on lipreading will be able to focus more clearly on what you are saying.
- Make sure the subtitles on:
As we all know, what’s on the television at Christmas is a big conversation topic. To make sure that everyone gets to enjoy the varying Christmas TV specials, make sure the subtitles are turned on. Subtitles are great as every family member can be involved and efficiently communicate their thoughts on the show.
- Ambience isn’t everything:
We all love a good fairy light and a Christmassy candle; however, such dim lighting can make communication and clear speech very difficult. Lipreading is hard under such conditions, and so make sure the lighting is bright and there is no glare. If you want to make the room, feel cosy, make sure you check in with those who rely on lipreading first.
- Santa’s beard is very inconvenient:
Meeting Santa is very important and a genuinely special moment for children and young people. Santa is known for having a long beard, which can make lip-reading very difficult for deaf children as lip patterns are unclear. Indeed, if Santa’s beard makes communication difficult, children can be left feeling underwhelmed and this is not fair for both child and parent.
- Finally, just ask people how you can help:
Hearing loss and deafness varies in different people, making ones needs different from the person that is next to them. To make communication easier, ask the person who is deaf or has hearing loss what you can do to help. This highlights your compassion and care for your family or friend. Simple adjustments can make such a significant difference. These can include, taking turns to speak and making sure you are always facing the individual.
Overall, being deaf aware at Christmas does not mean that significant changes need to be made, however, such little changes can make Christmas so much more enjoyable for everyone involved.
With this in mind, being deaf aware is not just important at Christmas but for life in general. Small changes can go a long way, so keep this in mind not just in December, but every month.