Communicating with people with hearing loss

TIPS FOR SPEAKING WITH PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS WITH OR WITHOUT A HEARING AID ON

• Don't shout. Speak normally, but slower and more clearly.

• Get the person's attention before speaking.

• Make sure the person has a clear view of your face whenever possible.

• Reduce background noise whenever possible (e.g. turn off the television, move away from the dishwasher, washing machine, etc.).

• If the person does not understand the first time, try rephrasing rather than repeating.

• Don't shout from another room or speak with your back turned. Face-to-face communication is best.

• Be patient. People with hearing loss likely aren't trying to ignore you, they just have more difficulty hearing and understanding what you are saying.

• Use full, simple sentences when communicating.

• Encourage use of hearing aids or assistive listening devices if the person has any.

• Try to engage the person in communication and social activities as much as possible to help improve their quality of life and help prevent the person from feeling isolated.


blogger/author: Sarah Helmel