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Hearing loss should not be a barrier to fully taking part in all aspects of life, even if you are profoundly deaf. Whether or not you wear hearing aids, there are things you can do to help make the most of the hearing you have.

For those with a hearing impairment

Help the speaker:

• Tell them that you have a hearing impairment.
• Tell them how they can help you: by speaking clearly (don't mumble or shout) but not too slowly or with over exaggerated lip movements.
• Ask them to get your attention before they start speaking.
• Encourage them to start their conversations by telling you what the subject is (this will help you interpret what they are saying).
• If you don't understand, ask them to repeat or re-phrase what they have said (be assertive but stay calm, and don't panic).

Position yourself in relation to the speaker:

• You will understand people better if you can see their face and lips clearly when they speak. We all lip-read a little, and developing this skill can be helpful even with a mild hearing loss.
• Preferably, face them. If you have to sit next to them position yourself on the best side for you (tell them why you are doing this).
• Try to position them so the light is on their face
• Watch for expressions and gestures.

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For those speaking to someone with a hearing impairment

Be understanding. Hearing aids cannot restore hearing to normal.

• Don't guess how much the person can hear. Ask them how they prefer to communicate and what you can do to help.
• Attract the attention of the listener before you start speaking (catch their eye, lift your hand or lightly touch their shoulder).
• Speak more slowly (but not too slow) and clearly (but not over exaggerated)
• Make sure they know what subject you are talking about e.g. 'Tomorrow's appointment at Addenbrooke's; do you know where we have to go to?'
• Make sure they can see your face. Remember, the listener is watching you closely because they might be lip-reading and/or can get extra clues from your body language and expressions.
• Ensure your face is well lit. Keeping your hands, cup of tea, cigarette etc away from your face. Remove sunglasses so the listener can see your expressions more clearly.
• If they don't understand you, rephrase the whole sentence (not just one word - it might not be the one they are having problems with). If someone still can't hear what you say, write it down.

Changing rooms: modify your environment

• Move closer to the listener (don't shout from the next room).
• Choose a quiet room with low background noise (or try to reduce it by turning down music or equipment).
• Echoes and harsh sounds make hearing more difficult: use soft furnishings and even mats and tablecloths to reduce them.
• Arrange lights in the room carefully: it is easier to understand a speaker if their face is well lit.

 

 

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