Edinburgh audiologists launch friendly library sessions
A high street audiologists has partnered with local Edinburgh libraries to help people get the very best from their hearing devices. By bringing people together in the welcoming warmth of their local library, the initiative offers an opportunity to build confidence in using their devices, enjoy better conversations and connect with others over a friendly cup of tea.
Specsavers Morningside and Cameron Toll stores are holding group sessions within Morningside Library to provide customers with the opportunity to spend time with a hearing expert in a quiet setting, learning how to get the best from their new device, whilst meeting others who are also dealing with hearing loss.
Jonathan Bell, Edinburgh Specsavers Hearcare director, is holding the first session in the local library on Thursday 12 November.
Jonathan and his business partners Michael O’Kane and Joe Alubaid, hope that these sessions will also help battle possible social isolation which can occur due to hearing loss and help reduce the risk of dementia, whilst improving memory retention.
The hearing expert will also provide troubleshooting advice about hearing devices and answer any questions to ensure everyone is comfortable with their appliances.
Jonathan says: ‘We are extremely excited to kickstart this partnership with Morningside library. These sessions will be held regularly, giving local people the chance to meet others who are in a similar situation to themselves, and we hope to roll them out across other libraries if this proves popular.
‘We want to create a relaxed, welcoming and informal environment where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences, asking questions and getting advice. Each group will be limited to a maximum of eight people to keep the sessions small and intimate, with tea, biscuits and plenty of opportunity for a friendly chat in the warmth of the library before the schools finish for the day.
‘We hope that by bringing people together in this way, we can help break down some of the barriers and stigma surrounding hearing loss, while showing people that they don't have to navigate the experience alone.’
The first session is open to all Morningside residents, or those nearby, who would benefit from joining. The event will take place from 1pm to 2.30pm on Thursday 12 November at Morningside Library at 184 Morningside Road, EH10 4PU.
Jonathan adds: ‘It will very much be an open discussion led by our attendees, but I’ll be on hand to answer any questions, and we can even chat about any accessories that they might like to ask their family for Christmas to help them in everyday life.
‘With Christmas just round the corner, it’s so important that people are able to hear their loved ones at the Christmas dinner table – otherwise it can be a very isolating time. We are here to dispel any myths and ensure everyone attending feels confident and happy with their hearing.’