Communicating with someone with hearing loss can be frustrating for all parties involved. I spend a great deal of time counseling my patients and their families on ways to make it easier and more effective. Here are some tips for better communication.
- Walk into the room where the person is. Try to be less than 6 feet away from them. The farther away you are, the less likely they will hear you. Being in front of them allows them to see your face and read your lips, too. Being able to see your face helps them fill in the blanks.
- Get their attention. Before you start talking, call their name or touch them to alert them you are going to speak. This allows them to shift attention and focus on you.
- Keep your hands away from your face. This allows sound to flow freely and for lip reading.
- Don’t shout. Speak slightly slower and perhaps just a bit louder than usual. Nothing dramatic! Do not exaggerate anything.
- Rephrase rather than repeat. Sometimes it is just a single word that they cannot understand. Rephrasing may help them understand.
- Remember that even with hearing aids, they still have hearing loss. It is just as frustrating for them as it is for you.
- Reduce background noise. If the TV is on, mute it before speaking. Move away from loud areas.
If you or someone you love has hearing loss, call Gardner Audiology today to schedule an appointment at one of our 8 locations. Call 800-277-1182 or email info@gardneraudiology.com today! You can also schedule online at www.gardneraudiology.com
