Approximately 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children and 15% of American adults 18 and older suffer from some form of hearing loss, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). However, those without a hearing impairment tend to forget how much we use hearing to function in our daily lives.
For those who suffer from a hearing impairment, being able to socialize with others and partake in different forms of entertainment from watching movies to playing sports are greatly diminished. Some activities may even be essentially “off-limits” for these individuals if they involve any sort of speaking and/or listening.
The good news is, there are still many great, enjoyable activities that those with hearing loss can engage in. Some of these activities include the following:
1. Solving puzzles
Sudoku, crossword puzzles, word searches, and other types of puzzles are excellent cognitive-boosting activities for those with a hearing impairment. Not only do they not involve sound, but solving puzzles can help eliminate depression and anxiety which may be exasperation for hearing loss.
2. Visiting a museum
Most history and art museums are primarily or completely visual, making them ideal for those with hearing loss. Plus, any additional information about an item on display in a museum is often presented in the text rather than in audio.
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Collage-making
Due to the limited socialization, those with hearing loss may be able to engage in, it’s important that they find ways to express their emotions in non-verbal formats. Making collages is a great way to express themselves and their feelings. Collages can easily be made by cutting and pasting words and images from old magazines onto paper or another surface.
4. Partaking in yoga
Individual activities like yoga don’t require talking or listening to others. Although one might wish to take a yoga class, generally, yoga can be done solo or performed while watching a yoga instruction video online with closed captioning to achieve an in-class yoga experience.
Best of all, yoga isn’t only entertaining and accommodational for those with a hearing setback; it can provide physical exercise, boost relaxation, and aid with mental illness symptoms.
5. Taking pictures
Like yoga, photography can be a solo activity. After all, it’s no surprise that many professional photographers are quiet, introverted individuals: because unless they’re taking portraits of people, there is little to no verbal communication needed to engage in such a hobby or job. Photography is a great way to express emotions and interests without communication.
While there are many activities for those with hearing loss to engage in, it’s still important to find ways to improve your hearing if possible. With fully rechargeable hearing aids, many individuals with hearing loss can enjoy a more fulfilling life.
Conclusion
Although a hearing impairment can hinder one’s ability to engage in certain activities, there are still a plethora of activities that will be suitable for them. From solving puzzles to taking pictures, there are many different types of entertainment applicable for the hearing impaired to enjoy solo or alongside others.
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