See below for a few helpful tips to improve communication with a person who has hearing loss:
Set Your Stage
- Face the person directly
- Spotlight your face (no backlighting)
- Minimize noisy environments
- First, get the attention of the person you want to engage
- Don’t resist asking what will make communication easier for the hearing impaired person
- Visual cues always supplement auditory input
Get the Point Across
- Don’t shout
- Speak clearly at moderate pace not over-emphasizing words
- Don’t cover your mouth and avoid chewing food or gum while talking
- Re-phrase a word or sentence when the hearing impaired person does not understand what is being spoken
- Facial expressions and gestures may prove helpful
Be Mindful of the Challenges for Hearing
- Be patient if responses to your conversation are not timely
- Talk directly to a hard-of-hearing person. Looking at others comprises effective communication with the hearing impaired
Call North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab at (847) 432-5555 for more information or to schedule an appointment.