The holidays are full of joy, but let’s be honest—they’re also noisy. From the laughter of children to the clatter of dishes and overlapping conversations, the chaos of a holiday dinner can be overwhelming. For someone with hearing loss, these moments can feel like a challenge to keep up. But over the years, I’ve learned how to navigate the noise and turn holiday gatherings into meaningful experiences. Let me share what’s worked for me, combining both personal lessons and professional expertise.

Preparation is Key

A little preparation goes a long way in reducing stress and making the holidays enjoyable. Before any gathering, I make sure my hearing technology are ready to go—fully cleaned, charged or with fresh batteries—and I test any assistive devices like remote microphones to make sure I remember how to easily use them when needed. I’ve also started using live captioning on my cell phone. Having properly working tools at hand gives me confidence heading into any noisy environment.

I am also intentional in letting my family and friends know how they can support me. For example, they will ask the host to turn down background music during dinner or to place me in a quieter part of the table. These small requests make a big difference.

Strategic Seating Changes Everything

Where you sit at the table may seem like a small detail, but it can make a world of difference.

Avoid High-Traffic Zones: Stay away from spots near the kitchen door, by the little kids' section at the table, audio speakers, or other areas with a lot of movement and high traffic noise.
Choose a Central Seat: Sitting along the middle of one side of the table gives you a better view of everyone’s faces, helping with lip reading and catching visual cues.
Pick a Supportive Buddy: Opt to sit near someone who is patient and understanding—someone who doesn’t mind repeating or summarizing things. My sister has filled this role in the past, and her support turned a potentially overwhelming dinner into a memorable and joyful experience.

Fostering Connection

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that connection is more important than perfection. Small adjustments, like thoughtful seating and reduced noise, allow me to fully enjoy the laughter and love around the table. This holiday season, I hope you find ways to navigate the noise and focus on what matters most: the people and the memories you’ll cherish for years to come. With a little planning, meaningful connections can shine through—even in the midst of chaos

Nashlea Brogan, Doctor of Audiology, is an audiologist and advocate with firsthand experience navigating life with hearing loss. As a cochlear implant user and hearing health expert, she combines her personal journey with over 20 years of professional expertise. A TEDx speaker, Nashlea is passionate about raising awareness of the broader impact of hearing loss and empowering individuals to embrace proactive care for stronger connections and fuller lives. Connect with Nashlea on facebook or instagram @nashleabrogan.aud