Hey there,
As we continue to navigate our way through this pandemic, it’s always good to be kept well informed on how best to tackle new challenges when they arise, especially if those challenges are hearing related.
The team here at Beltone is working hard to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health, and if you’re someone who has been affected by hearing loss, or you know someone who has, then we’d love you to help us spread the word further.
How Can You Help?
The first thing you can do is to encourage a loved one to have a hearing assessment, just like you did.
Next up, the team at Beltone is on the lookout for people who would like to share their hearing loss story with the world.
By sharing the story of your journey, you’ll help others in our community to feel more confident about making the right decision.
Hearing loss awareness is only effective if people are made aware, so thank you in advance for all you do.
Updates from The Office
Your health and safety have and always will remain our number one priority.
For your information, we are open and continue to follow CDC guidelines to provide you and our staff with the cleanest and most professional environment possible.
In our smaller offices, we will continue one-on-one appointments and will not be taking in walk-in customers.
Furthermore, we are pleased to say we are also still offering our curbside service for those who want assistance with their hearing aids from the comfort of their own vehicle!
Why Face Masks Hinder Sign Language
It’s no secret that during the pandemic, many people have struggled with communication due to face masks.
But you might be surprised to learn that those who communicate through American Sign Language are actually finding it particularly difficult.
Lori Whynot, a Northeastern University professor who interprets for the governor of Massachusetts, recently shared why facial expressions are key to this language.
Wearing a mask while signing “is like listening to a muffled message,” she explained to News@Northeastern, with mouth movements key to “modifying verbs and nouns.”
That said, it’s important that sign language translators show their faces on TV, perhaps by wearing clear face coverings.
If you’ve struggled with understanding people wearing face masks, or people are struggling to understand you, then contact your local Beltone team who will be happy to help you source a transparent mask.
Helpful Resources
Why Has the “New Normal” Created Challenges for the Hard of Hearing?
For those already diagnosed with a hearing loss, face coverings diminish interpretive ability. And for the millions with an undiagnosed hearing loss, they are now aware of new challenges…
Helping Your Loved One Understand the Importance of Hearing Aids
There are ways to talk to loved ones about hearing loss and the need for hearing aids, even if you’re starting to feel as though your loved one won’t ever bring it up on their own, try some of these strategies…
