Communication Tips

Communication Tips for Individuals with Hearing Loss

• Always watch the speaker.
• Don't interrupt. You want to listen to everything he or she says.
• If you don't hear everything, ask to have it repeated.
• Summarize what you did hear so the speaker can fill in the rest.
• Familiarize yourself with topics at meetings and current events, so it is easier to follow conversations.
• Try to pick out the idea instead of the individual words.
• Listen for key words and phrases.
• Use the setting or context to help you get the meaning.
• Don't be afraid to guess, using the context and situation as clues.
• Keep you sense of humor.

Tips for Communicating with Individuals with Hearing Loss

• Speak in a normal tone of voice. Do not shout; shouting distorts the sound of your voice.
• Speak clearly and slowly. Don't leave off word endings or mumble, and don't over articulate your words.
• Stress key words and pause between statements.
• Use natural gestures and facial expressions. Avoid moving around while you talk.
• Speak at a distance between three and six feet away from the person.
• Stand in a well-lit area facing the person.
• Get the individual's attention and face him or her before you start to speak.
• Reduce background noise.
• Ask the individual what will help to make conversations easier.
• Do not cover your mouth or chew while you speak.
• Introduce the topic of conversation