Ledesma Audiological Center Inc. — Tips for Communicating with the Hard of Hearing

Tips for Communicating with the Hard of Hearing

Sometimes, it can be difficult to communicate with someone who has hearing loss, not because of their condition but because you tend to be cautious when talking with them because you are afraid of offending them.

Here are some things you should remember when socializing with someone who has hearing:

1. Avoid using the term ‘hearing impaired’. Some of them may find the term offensive. You can use the term deaf or deaf person, but the more appropriate term is ‘hard of hearing’.

2. When talking with the hard of hearing, always look directly at his or her eyes. Use eye to eye contact and don’t forget to keep your eye contact, even when there is an interpreter.

3. Instead of repeating what you’ve said, try rephrasing it. If the person you are talking to have asked you to repeat yourself several times already, it is best to just rephrase your thoughts so that he or she could understand you better.

4. Be aware of the environment. Make sure that the area is well lit so that he or she can see your facial expression clearly or read your lips. It is also better to talk to the person in a quieter environment.

5. Write important details. It is advisable to write important information, especially the ones that includes names and numbers.

6. Speak naturally. You don’t need to yell when talking with someone who has hearing loss. Shouting, actually, makes it harder for them to understand what you are saying.

Hopefully this list of reminders should be helpful the next time you talk to some who has hearing loss. However, the best reminder you should keep in mind is respect. Take time to learn about the person and what he or she needs.

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