When speaking with someone who has a hearing loss, you should be aware of a number of factors that can significantly influence the person’s ability to understand you.

People with hearing loss can improve their own communication abilities by learning speech-reading techniques and taking part in other types of rehabilitation that a physician or audiologist may prescribe. A variety of assistive listening device options are available to enhance hearing for a range of activities, including talking on the telephone, watching television, or attending theater performances or conferences. Other products such as specially-designed doorbell indicators, intercoms, smoke alarms, etc., can be lifesaving alerts. Consult with your hearing health professional to learn what’s available for your specific needs.

Communication Tips

• Repeat your statement if it is not understood and try to rephrase it.
  
  

• Enunciate well without distorting your speech. Remember that the listener may not understand all words even when they are properly articulated. Consonants can be particularly difficult to understand. Some pairs of letters frequently cause confusion – examples include meet vs. beet, shoe vs. chew and few vs. view.
   

• Avoid chewing or covering your mouth. Keep your hands away from your mouth while speaking.
   

• Clue the person to any changes in the discussion topic. Doing so may involve using several different words to express the same thought.
  
  

• Be patient.