To improve communication between you and someone hard-of-hearing, it is important to follow these good practices. We want people with hearing loss to feel included in conversations and to have their voices heard. If you’re in the area, come visit Pensacola’s best hearing center.
Although many people with hearing loss can lip-read, it is not always possible. It takes energy and can be frustrating. These simple tips can help us communicate better with our hearing impaired loved ones.
Attract their attention
Before you start any conversation with someone hard of hearing, it is important to make sure they are fully engaged. You will repeat yourself if you talk to someone without their consent. Start every conversation by introducing your name and gently tapping their arm.
Start from the side or front
To avoid startling them, try not to approach from behind. Do not tap them behind the ears. Instead, make sure to be face-to-face with them or by their side before you start a conversation. To let them know that you’re ready to talk, gently tap their arm.
Pick a quiet moment
Hearing impaired people will have difficulty following conversations if there’s too much noise or distraction around them. Communicate with them in quiet places where they have the most chance to hear what you have to share. This is true for restaurants and cafes as well.
Talk face to face
It is always better to communicate face-to-face with someone with hearing loss. They can see your lips and understand what you are saying. It can be difficult to lipread at times. However, it is easier to ensure you are still in front of them. It is also good manners.
Talk clearly
Do not mumble, speak softly, or loudly. It is best to speak clearly and loudly enough so they can hear you. You shouldn’t speak too fast or softly. It is easy to slip back into your usual speaking voice, so it is important to keep your voice clear.
Make sure they are able to understand.
You may waste your time if you talk endlessly without first checking that they understand you. If you are unsure if they understand you, ask them again. Ask them if they can still hear you okay.
Keep it low
People who speak loudly at people with hearing loss can frustrate them. They don’t need to shout, and if they have a hearing aid, it can make them feel very uncomfortable.
Never deny it matters
You should not respond to someone who is hard-of hearing if they say they don’t understand what you are saying. These three words can be demoralizing for people with hearing loss. Keep calm and repeat your words more often, no matter how important they are.
Do not abandon your goal
While it’s easy for you to look away when speaking to someone who is hard of hearing, this can cause them to lose the conversation and make you repeat yourself. It’s not easy to keep your head up and speak clearly so that they can see you. Do not cover your mouth with your hands, or eat while you talk.
Talk to the person and not the support
It is respectful to look at the person you’re speaking to if they have communication support, such as a sign-language interpreter. If you do not, your conversation with the interpreter will be interrupted and the person with hearing impairment might feel discouraged.
Learn sign language
To better communicate with your friend or family member who has hearing loss, learn sign language. You will be greatly appreciated by them and it will strengthen your relationship.
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