Make the most of your time at hearing loss conferences with these suggestions.
Attending a hearing loss conference, such as the HLAA Convention or ALDAcon, can be an enriching experience. Conferences offer a chance to connect with others in the hearing loss community, learn about the latest technological advancements, and gain insights into managing hearing loss more effectively. If you’re traveling to a hearing loss conference this year, here are 7 tips to help your trip go smoothly.
Research the Conference’s Hearing Loss Accommodations Ahead of Time
Before you even pack your bags, take some time to research the accommodations the conference offers for people with hearing loss. Many conferences like the HLAA Convention, ALDAcon, and National Association of the Deaf (NAD), are planned with accessibility in mind, offering features such as sign language interpreters, captioning services, and assistive listening devices for presentations. Knowing what accommodations are available can help you plan your participation more effectively and ensure you don’t miss out on any part of the conference.
Book Accommodations Well in Advance and Research the Hotel’s Accessibility Options
Finding the right place to stay is an important part of traveling to a conference. Book your hotel well in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability. Often times, the conference has a “block” of rooms set aside so you can get a special rate and stay with others attending the same conference. When choosing a hotel, don’t just look at proximity to the conference venue; investigate the hotel’s accessibility features as well. Hotels are required to offer rooms equipped with visual alert systems for the door and phone, text or captioned telephones, and other aids for guests with hearing loss, but they may provide additional services in anticipation of the hearing-related event you’re attending.
Use the Schedule to Plan Your Day
Conferences can be overwhelming with their myriad of sessions, workshops, and events. Once the schedule is available, spend some time reviewing it to identify the sessions that are most interesting to you. Planning your day can help you manage your energy levels and ensure you attend sessions that are most beneficial to you. Don’t forget to allocate time for breaks; these are great opportunities to relax and recharge.
Spend Some Time Sightseeing in the City
While the primary reason for your trip is the conference, consider taking time to explore the host city. Conference locations usually have a lot to offer, like historical sites, museums, parks, and unique dining experiences. Sightseeing can provide a refreshing break from the conference’s intensity and give you a chance to experience the local culture. If possible, look for guided tours that accommodate hearing needs to fully enjoy the experience.
Spend Time Networking and Communicating With Others
Conferences offer valuable opportunities to meet and network with others who share similar interests and challenges in the hearing loss community. Don’t hesitate to share your communication preferences with others and ask what theirs are in return. Consider finding a quiet corner or an off-traffic area to help facilitate communication, especially in noisy environments. One of the main benefits of traveling to a hearing loss conference is meeting others and networking, so don’t be afraid to reach out to attendees and start a conversation!
Pack Smart and Prepare for the Unexpected
When packing for the conference, make sure to include essentials for supporting your hearing loss. This includes spare batteries or chargers if you use hearing aids or assistive listening devices, a dry kit to protect devices from humidity, and any other accessories you might need. It’s also wise to have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Know where you can find a local audiologist or hearing aid provider in the conference city just in case you need repairs or replacements.
Embrace the Experience
Traveling to a hearing loss conference can be a profoundly rewarding experience. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and connect with a community that understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with hearing loss. Embrace the experience fully, keeping an open mind and a positive attitude. The connections you make and the knowledge you gain can have a lasting impact on your life.
And while you’re there, look for CapTel and please stop by to say hello!
By following these tips, you can make traveling to a hearing loss conference not only enjoyable but also incredibly rewarding. For more tips on travel with hearing loss, take a look at the CapTel blog.
