Social engagement can be difficult with hearing loss. But when the new daily schedule requires social distancing during the coronavirus epidemic, social engagement can seem impossible. Here are some ideas to keep yourself engaged and healthy during this time of self-quarantine.
Set A Schedule
It’s easy to get in the habit of lounging around during social isolation. You can’t go out, so what can you do? Set goals to accomplish each day, so you keep yourself motivated and active. Schedule time to do chores, make phone calls, exercise, and relax. It’s essential to keep active to avoid feelings of depression and isolation, but it’s also important to give yourself time to unwind.
Keep Your Mind And Body Active
Exercise may seem like the last thing you want to worry about right now, but keeping a regular exercise routine keeps your body and mind rejuvenated. You’re setting yourself up for hearing success when you maintain your physical and mental health, which means you reduce your risk of depression.
Go for a walk each morning or get out in the garden to get fresh air. Taking up a new hobby will keep your brain firing and is an easy way to have some fun. Learn to knit, read a new book, learn a new language, or try your hand at painting. There are plenty of free online resources to help you get started. The auditory nerve in your brain will benefit from keeping your mind active.
Try Video Chat
Whether you have a smartphone, laptop or desktop computer, or tablet, the available video chat services are out there for your use. A phone call is great if you want to hear someone’s voice, but a video chat lets you see their face, their expressions, and their environment. If your hearing aids have Bluetooth capabilities, you’ll be able to connect to your smart devices with ease.
Try out some of these video chat applications:
- FaceTime: If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac computer, FaceTime is a quick and easy way to access video chat. Some smartphones come with the app already installed, and new technology has improved sound and picture quality.
- Google Duo: This app is the Android equivalent to FaceTime. Like FaceTime, it offers clear audio and picture and is free to users. You can also talk to eight callers simultaneously on different devices.
- WhatsApp: With WhatsApp, you can send voice messages, texts, video chats and calls, and even send documents. This app has been around for over ten years and uses internet connection to work, so you don’ have to worry about using your monthly data.
Have A Hearing Plan
It’s not the time to run out of essential likes milk, eggs, and toilet paper. It’s especially not the time to break your hearing aids or run out of batteries. Keep your hearing aids charged or make sure you have enough batteries to last several weeks. Ask a loved one or neighbor to assist you with shopping if you’re unsure about venturing out of the house.
Hearing Associates wants to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe and informed during this time of uncertainty. If you have concerns about your hearing aids, call 888.760.2032, or contact us online.