Hear those cheers for Penn State football! Football season is actually the “most wonderful time of the year” for some folks. The cheers of fans are echoing through the stadiums, whistles are blowing, bands are marching, players are yelling and, before you know it, the end bell is ringing — did you catch every sound that makes up this beautiful game?
It’s essential for those with hearing loss to ensure they can fully experience the excitement of this game we call football. Whether you’re a seasoned Penn State fan or it’s your first visit to State College, PA, making an appointment now to upgrade your hearing aids, and wearing them to the game can make a significant difference in your overall enjoyment and even your safety. Let’s explore the top five reasons why hearing aid users should consider this essential accessory when attending the next Penn State football game:
1. Feel the Atmosphere
Football games are not just about what you see on the field — the atmosphere in the stadium is an integral part of the experience. From the roar of the crowd to the sound of the marching bands, there’s an energy that fills the air. Wearing your hearing aids to the game ensures that you don’t miss out on any of these vital sounds. Upgrading to advanced hearing aids allows you to adjust the settings to focus on the game’s specific sounds, enhancing your overall game-day experience.
2. Calling an Audible
Unless you and your plus-one are living it up in a skybox, attending a football game often involves being in a crowd. Have you ever shouted in your friend’s face and they still can’t hear you? It doesn’t have to be this way — make a change!
Events like this can make communication challenging for anyone, but even more so for those with hearing loss. Modern hearing aids have high-tech options including directional microphones and noise reduction capabilities. These options can reduce background noise interference and allow you to focus on conversations with your football buddies. No more straining to hear or misunderstanding the person right next to you.
3. Scoring a Safety
Safety should always be a top priority when attending any event, and football games are no exception. The ability to hear announcements, warnings, and emergency instructions is crucial to ensure your well-being and that of those around you. Hearing devices with telecoil features can even connect to induction loop systems commonly found in stadiums, making it easier to receive important auditory information in emergencies.
4. No Unnecessary Roughness
The stadium atmosphere can be incredibly loud, with constant cheers and noise from the crowd — this can lead to temporary or even permanent hearing damage. Even those with perfect hearing should think about their ear health before a game. Ear protection, like ear muffs or ear plugs (like the kind many professional musicians wear), helps to reduce the overall sound intensity, allowing you to enjoy the game without putting your hearing at risk. By safeguarding the hearing you do have, you can continue to experience the thrill of the game while ensuring your long-term auditory well-being.
5. Home Field Advantage
When you watch a Penn State game with friends and family, you’re home. It’s the perfect social event to bring loved ones and fans together. If you have untreated hearing loss, this social aspect might feel a bit disconnected and the ability to fully participate in conversations and cheer along with the crowd can turn into something uncomfortable. Hearing devices, and especially technological advancements, made to help in certain auditory situations like football games can bridge this gap. Updating your hearing devices empowers you to connect with those around you, share in the excitement, and strengthen your sense of belonging. Home feels like home again.
Heading out to Beaver Stadium with hearing loss doesn’t mean missing out on the full experience. Getting your hearing devices cleaned and checked and upgrading your devices can significantly improve your game-day experience, from immersing yourself in the stadium atmosphere to being able to clearly communicate with friends and loved ones.
Before attending the next Penn State game, consider visiting your audiologist for a hearing evaluation and discuss the best options for your needs. By investing in your hearing health, you’ll be ready to cheer on your favorite team, share in the excitement of the game, and create cherished memories that last a lifetime. Go, Penn State!