Summer is a time for adventure, exploration, and relaxation. But for people with hearing loss, this season can also present unique challenges. Navigating new environments, communicating with larger groups of people, and handling unexpected situations can be difficult without proper preparation and resources. Here are a few helpful summer travel tips for people with hearing loss. Let’s review some useful strategies for transportation, accommodations, communication, and safety.
Transportation Strategies
Whether you’re flying across the country or going on a road trip, there are a few ways you can make travel days easier:
- Plan Ahead: Research transportation options, schedules, and accessibility features ahead of time to ensure a smooth, stress-free travel experience.
- Advocate for Accommodations: Contact transportation providers in advance to request accommodations, such as reserved seating, captioning, or sign language interpretation.
- Bring Necessary Gear: Carry any hearing devices, chargers, or accessories needed throughout your journey, including spare batteries. If you’re flying, pack all these essentials in your carry-on bag.
- Pack Light: Avoid overpacking, which can lead to lost or misplaced items, and prioritize essential communication and safety gear.
- Be Alert: Always stay alert when using transportation modes, such as crossing streets, boarding trains or buses, or navigating airport terminals.
- Maintain Safety: Wear or carry any medical or identification tags to ensure safety in case of emergencies.
Accommodations Strategies
Are you staying in a hotel or resort? Here are a few things to think about as you’re planning your nightly accommodations:
- Research Accommodations Options: Choose accommodations that provide accessibility features and services, such as hearing aid compatible televisions or hearing loop systems.
- Prepare for Check-In: Notify the front desk staff about your hearing loss, and request any accommodations in advance.
- Ask for Assistance: Request assistance from staff when needed, such as captioning for in-room televisions or auditory alarms for emergencies.
- Check Room Features: Inspect the room for any potential hearing hazards, such as noise-sensitive alarms or noisy appliances.
- Sleep Comfortably: Ensure that the bed is comfortable and situated in a way that promotes proper sleep, such as facing away from noisy hallways or outside streets.
Communication Strategies
Whether you’re spending the day with loved ones or chatting with other hotel guests or visitors, here are some communication strategies:
- Use Visual Cues: Use visual cues, such as body language, gestures, or facial expressions, to aid in communication.
- Carry Communication Card: Carry a card or paper that informs others about your hearing loss, including preferred communication methods and any necessary accommodations.
- Request Repeat or Rewording: When you do not hear someone, politely request that they repeat or reword their statement.
- Confirm Understanding: Verify understanding by repeating or paraphrasing what was said to ensure accuracy.
- Position Yourself Strategically: Position yourself in a way that allows you to see the speaker’s face and read their lips.
- Use Technology: Utilize assistive devices, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or smartphone apps, to aid in communication.
Safety Strategies
Stay safe during your summer holiday! Here are a few safety tips:
- Stay Vigilant: Stay alert to ensure safety and avoid risks during your travels, such as unsafe buildings, unfamiliar surroundings, or dangerous situations.
- Carry Emergency Card: Carry a card or paper in your wallet that informs people of your hearing loss and any necessary medical information, such as allergies or medication.
- Designate Buddy: Designate a travel buddy or group member who is responsible for assisting you in case of emergencies.
- Practice Evacuation Plans: Familiarize yourself with the emergency evacuation plan, and ensure that it includes accommodations for hearing loss.
- Wear Hearing Protection: Wear hearing protection when exposed to loud noises, such as concerts, fireworks, or flying.
- Keep Phone Charged: Keep your phone charged and accessible in case of emergency, and program emergency contacts into your phone.
Enjoy Summer Travel with Hearing Loss
Planning a summer trip? With the proper preparation and resources, you can enjoy your travels to the fullest. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family and friends, your hearing aids will help you connect with those around you, and enjoy your holiday with ease.
Before you go, book a hearing test or hearing aid maintenance appointment with us. We’ll make sure you have the resources and support you need for a successful and enjoyable adventure. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back – take the first step towards enhanced travel today.