Posted Thursday September 25, 2025
One of the most common challenges for people with hearing aids is following conversations in noisy places, whether it’s a café, a family gathering, or a busy workplace. The good news? Modern hearing aids are designed with features to make these situations easier, and with a few practical strategies, you can feel more confident in noisy settings.
1. Make the most of your hearing aid features
Today’s hearing aids are smarter than ever. Many models include:
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Directional microphones – these focus on sounds coming from in front of you, reducing background noise.
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Noise reduction settings – designed to minimise environmental noise without dulling voices.
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Programs for specific environments – such as restaurants, concerts, or outdoors.
If you’re not sure how to access these features, ask your audiologist to walk you through them. A quick adjustment could make a big difference.
2. Use accessories to boost your hearing
Wireless accessories can connect directly to your hearing aids and help in noisy situations. For example:
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Remote microphones placed near the speaker can stream their voice straight into your hearing aids.
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TV streamers make group watching more enjoyable without raising the volume for everyone.
These tools are particularly useful in work meetings, classrooms, or social gatherings.
3. Choose your spot wisely
Positioning can make a big difference:
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Sit with your back to a wall to reduce noise coming from behind.
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Face the person you want to hear clearly.
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In restaurants, ask for a corner table or somewhere away from speakers and kitchens.
Small adjustments in seating can make conversation much easier.
4. Combine hearing and visual cues
Your brain uses more than just sound to process communication. Pay attention to:
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Lip movements
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Facial expressions
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Body language
These cues can help fill in any gaps if background noise gets in the way.
5. Be open with others
Let your friends and family know that background noise can make listening harder. Ask them to:
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Speak clearly (but not shout).
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Get your attention before starting to talk.
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Reduce competing sounds, like turning down the TV or music.
Most people are happy to help once they understand what makes listening easier for you.
6. Keep your hearing aids in top condition
Regular cleaning, battery checks, and professional servicing all help your hearing aids work at their best. If you notice they aren’t performing well in noisy environments, it may be time for a review or a technology upgrade.
The bottom line
Noisy environments don’t have to be frustrating. With the right hearing aid settings, smart use of accessories, and a few practical strategies, you can enjoy conversations and social moments with more confidence.
Need help adjusting your hearing aids for noisy situations?
Book a review appointment with Audiology South — our audiologists can fine-tune your devices, recommend useful accessories, and show you how to get the most out of your technology.