Let’s go out for dinner! Restaurant dining has evolved a lot in the last few years. Growing up in Louisiana, I can recall many types of restaurants. But one thing is certain: great food in a relaxed atmosphere where you can chat and enjoy your meal while visiting with family and friends.
There weren’t many fast-food restaurants. There was one Burger King in our area, with a large sign that showed a King sitting on top of a hamburger. I prefer plain burgers and would often point out to my siblings that the sign with the king on top of the burger was also plain. There were also local seafood restaurants with newspapers on the tables, and a sink that you could use to wash your hands without going into the bathroom. White tablecloth restaurants had carpeted floors and curtains at the windows. You might hear soft music and waiters with soft feet who took orders and brought you food.
These days, restaurants are not places where you can sit down and have a conversation while eating. Most restaurants are franchises that have a lot of stuff on the walls and multiple screens showing news, sports or music videos. The music will be loud if there aren’t any screens. These are not places where you can relax. It is noisy, energetic and full of energy. Why? Because you’ll order faster, eat quicker and clear your table faster for the next patron. A higher number of tables means more revenue for the business. If you’re in the area, come visit Pensacola’s best hearing center.
Everyone has difficulty understanding conversations in noisy restaurants. It can be frustrating for those with hearing impairments. Even with normal hearing, high noise can make it difficult to hear people across the room. These are some ways to increase your understanding in noisy restaurants.
- Be careful when choosing a restaurant. High ceilinged, trendy restaurants with open plans may be attractive, but they have poor acoustics with lots of echo, reverberance, and echo. For chatting, restaurants with tablecloths and carpets will be more acoustic. Although they may be more costly, you may enjoy a better overall experience. Family-owned restaurants tend to be quieter and have better acoustics.
- Place your feet on the walls of the room. Avoid the middle area, as there will be people walking around, tables, and other furniture.
- Avoid sitting in the vicinity of the kitchen as it is the loudest part of a restaurant.
- If possible, sit in a booth with high-backs. High backs and upholstery can dampen noise.
- Sit with your back against the noise if you wear hearing aids. This will make it easier for the noise reduction features of the hearing aids to work. Your dining companion should also be seated with their back against a wall. Their voice (and the hearing aid microphones) will be the only thing that comes towards you.
Everyone wants to enjoy a good meal at a restaurant. These suggestions will make your experience more enjoyable for you and your family.
Make an appointment today!
For more resources click here!
Recent Comments