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Adding customer attractions like big-screen televisions and computers with Internet access have contributed to the louder volume levels of America restaurants in the past few years. The people who dine out because they don't want to eat at home in silence may not mind the din. But other restaurant patrons, especially those who have a hearing loss, or seniors, may find noisy restaurants unnerving. These boisterous eateries are difficult, if not impossible, places to converse with dining companions. If you're looking for restaurants you can visit where you can hear your companions, read this informative article and learn some tips on how to choose wisely!

Tip 1: Steer Clear of Customer-Packed Restaurants
Even though they probably serve some of the best food in town, if you see a restaurant parking lot that's packed full, you can be sure it's plenty noisy inside. Besides not being able to hear, whether you have a hearing loss or not, restaurants like this tend to be difficult to move around in, especially if you have a disability. But, these popular restaurants aren't necessarily off-limits if you're choosing a quiet restaurant. Try visiting them during their "off hours," the usual times when people aren't eating breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Tip 2: Live Entertainment Like Karaoke Equals Clamor
If you want to choose an eatery where you can hear your companions, skip those restaurant choices that advertise having live entertainment or karaoke. The noise levels are bound to be extremely high. This can be a real problem if you're a senior or have a hearing disability.

Tip 3: Look for Restaurants That Play No Background Music
Even if it's played low, background music just adds to the clamor. In really noisy restaurants it can barely be heard above the conversations being held, the racket coming from the kitchen, the clinking and banging of dishes and tableware, and the general hubbub within the restaurant.

Tip 4: Choose a Restaurant That Serves an Older Crowd
The restaurants where seniors regularly congregate are generally quieter. They are usually easier to get around in, too. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you have a disability. If you're looking for a place to dine with companions where you can hear what each other is saying, look for a place that serves mainly seniors.

Tip 5: Look for Carpet Instead of Tile or Wood Flooring
Another consideration to make when you're choosing a restaurant is whether the floors are covered with tile, wood or carpet. It makes a difference because porous materials such as carpet, curtains and padded furniture actually absorb sound. Having these items in a restaurant can help make hearing each other easier and your visit more pleasant.

Tip 6: Find Seats Farthest Away From the Kitchen
Once you choose a restaurant that seems quiet enough that you think you'll be able to hear your companions, look for seats that aren't near the kitchen. Open kitchens are the worst creators of noise, but all of them can make it difficult to hear, especially if you have a hearing loss.

Tip 7: Select Seats That Aren't Near the Bar
The bar is another section of a restaurant that's normally louder than other areas. Once you choose a restaurant where you think you can have a normal conversation without screaming across the table, find seats away from the bar. That way, whether you have a hearing loss or not, you'll have a better chance of finding quietness.

And finally, if you visit a restaurant that's relatively quiet except for loud background music, for example, don't be afraid to ask the server if the noise can be turned down. If you have a hearing loss, explain to him/her that you have a disability. They may honor your request so you can converse with your companions and enjoy your meal.

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