Make your next sporting event even more memorable with these easy tips.
Attending a sporting event is an exciting experience filled with energy, cheering crowds, and unforgettable moments. However, noise level and communication barriers can sometimes present challenges for people with hearing loss. With a little preparation and mindfulness on noise reduction, everyone can have an incredible experience cheering on their favorite teams. Let’s take a look at some tips on attending a sporting event with hearing loss in this blog.
Check Venue Accommodations in Advance
Many stadiums and arenas offer accessibility services for those with hearing loss. Before heading to the event, check the venue’s website or call customer service to inquire about available accommodations. Some venues provide hearing loop systems, assistive listening devices, captioning services, or designated seating areas with improved sound clarity. Planning ahead ensures you can take advantage of these resources.
Bring Ear Protection for Loud Environments
Sporting events can be extremely loud, especially in large or enclosed arenas. Wearing earplugs or noise-reducing earmuffs can help protect your hearing from excessive noise levels while still allowing you to enjoy the game. Look for earplugs that reduce volume without distorting the sounds around you, or if you’re attending a lot of events, consider investing in custom-molded earplugs that fit your ear perfectly.
Use Communication Cards or Apps
Carrying a small card that explains your communication preferences can be helpful when interacting with staff or fellow attendees. A simple note stating that you have hearing loss and may need written communication or face-to-face interaction can make conversations smoother. Additionally, speech-to-text apps on your phone can help you follow conversations more easily, especially when there is a lot of background noise.
Choose Your Seating Wisely
Where you sit can impact how well you experience the game. If possible, select seats that minimize background noise, such as those away from speaker systems or overly rowdy sections. Some venues also have designated accessible seating areas that provide better visibility and sound accommodations.
Take Advantage of Captioning and Transcripts
If the venue offers captioning services on scoreboards or through mobile apps, use them to follow the announcements. Many professional sports teams provide real-time captioning or radio broadcasts that can be accessed via smartphone apps, making it easier to keep up with the game’s details.
Stay Connected with Friends or Family
If you’re attending with others, establish a way to communicate easily in noisy environments. Text messaging, gestures, or a pre-determined signal or meeting place at a certain time can help you stay in touch without frustration. If you rely on assistive listening devices like hearing aids, ensure they are fully charged or bring extra batteries to avoid disruptions during the game.
Sporting events can be exciting, high-energy, and incredibly loud, but with a little planning before kickoff, you’ll be ready for the game. Don’t forget your assistive devices and hearing protection, and enjoy the experience! For more hearing loss blogs, visit the CapTel website.
