WHEN YOU TRAVEL: SOME TIPS FOR HEARING AIDS

August 13, 2018

Traveling is usually an exciting way to kick back and visit new places. But if you use hearing aids travel can become a bit more complex.

Hearing Impaired and On the Road

When you are hearing impaired, there may be some difficulties you didn’t anticipate: including issues hearing announcements such as airline boarding calls, as well as difficulty recognizing unfamiliar noises like knocks at the door, hotel phones ringing and fire alarms.

You may face issues like lack of accommodation for hearing dogs or absence of oral or sign language interpreters. These seemingly small annoyances can make travel less fun.

Hearing Impaired and Travel Planning

With preparation, many of these complications can be dodged, making travel fun and exciting once again.

Here is some advice that may help make your travel as pleasant as it can be:

  • Try to meet your travel agent in person to guarantee satisfactory communication and detailed scheduling for your trip. The agent can help you contact airlines, hotels and attractions to set up special accommodations in advance and make reservations.
  • Any travel arrangements that can be made beforehand will make your trip easier and more enjoyable. Always obtain written confirmation of any reservations to ensure accuracy, and call someone at each stop along the way to let them know that you have hearing impairment. Most travel destinations are happy to accommodate your needs.
  • Living in the internet age is handy because we have access to every resource and all of the information available. Be sure to print out reservations, maps, confirmation numbers, itineraries, and other material that will make your trip go as smoothly as it can.
  • When traveling by airplane, train or bus, be sure to arrive early and alert the agent that you are hearing impaired. That way they can ensure you are made aware of all boarding calls and announcements.
  • Before boarding be sure to double-check your destination details and flight number, paying attention to the updates on the display screen.
  • You may want to request aisle seats on the airplane so you can communicate with attendants. Don’t forget to let them know you are hearing impaired so and they are often happy to relay important information.
  • Other travelers can also be very helpful– and you could meet a new acquaintance!

Hearing Aids and Traveling

Preparation is key If you use hearing devices. Consider the following tips before your next trip:

  • Consider bringing along your hearing aid dehumidifier if you have one. New locations may have a different humidity than your home, so a dehumidifier can prevent problems with dampness that you may not anticipate.
  • If you are traveling by plane, lost luggage is a very real possibility. Carry your hearing aid kit in your carry-on or personal bag just in case your luggage is separated from you for a couple of days!
  • It’s also a good idea to bring spare hearing aid batteries and tubing in case—you can be sure you will find them nearby your destination.

Forethought and planning can help you to have a great vacation next time you travel!

The first step to halting hearing loss and preventing further damage is to recognize your situation. Come in today for a hearing screening and formulate a strategy to train your brain to listen actively and effectively.

Diablo Hearing Services   2301 Camino Ramon, STE 106   San Ramon (925) 394-4646

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