What if I am not able to communicate something important?
What if he/she misunderstands me? What if it makes me embarrassed?
Often when we have to talk or engage with someone hard of hearing, we assume that by talking less, we can be the best company for the person. But no, sharing a good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity. Successful conversation requires efforts from both the listener and speaker. Although the person with hearing loss utilizes Programmable Hearing Aids and active listening strategies, the other person must also try to carry on the conversation using these simple tips and help them feel positive.
If you need help communicating with a hearing-impaired person or help the person with active listening strategies, contact our Hearing instrument specialist to get the best advice. On our website you can look for ‘Hearing Aid Centers Near Me’ to find out your nearest branch. For more details, call us at 040-42018181 / +91 8237037087.
Here are some best ways to communicate with people having hearing loss:
Hearing loss can sometimes be stressful at times when the person fails to communicate effortlessly. If you know one such person, try to empathize with their experience. They shouldn’t be made to feel left out but positive enough to talk confidently.
When meeting them in a group, give them a heads up of the topic of the conversation
Sit next to that person and let him or her know that they can turn to you to ask the missed information
Pay attention to the listener. If you feel they haven’t understood your message, try emphasizing key points.
Draw the person’s attention before you initiate the conversation. If you know which of their ear functions better, try positioning yourself to that side of the person.
Communicate Face-to-Face
It is very important for a person with hearing loss to visually analyse the speech. Try to always have a face to face conversation so that they are able to read your body language, lip-sync and hand gestures. Also, the sound will be clear when the distance is close.
Use Visual Clues
Effective communication goes beyond spoken words. You can use gestures and facial expressions to enhance the conversation. This way, the listener will easily get the meaning of the message.
Rephrase than Repeat
Rather than repeating what you said, try rephrasing your words. Some words can be easier to hear, so try using alternate words when the listener is unable to understand your words in one go.
Speak Clear
Use clear, steady and calm tone when speaking to the person. Avoid rapid and haphazard tone that may cause difficulty in processing the message.
Don’t Shout
Most people tend to speak loudly with people experiencing hearing loss. It not only hurts them but it has the opposite effect. Shouting distorts the sound and it becomes even harder for the person with hearing impairment to process your speech. It is better to raise the volume a bit and talk clearly.
Write it Down
This should be your last resort! If you have tried conversing with the person verbally but struggling to get specific message conveyed, write it down. Please understand that this may make them feel awful about their impairment so try talking them normally, giving them chance to understand your speech.
Having said that, you can always share significant information in writing to ensure there is no miscommunication.
At HNR Speech and Hearing Centre, we offer assistive or remote listening aids that can help you live with your hearing loss more comfortably. Find a nearest centre of HNR Speech and Hearing Centre and make a call today to consult our audiologist.
Call us on: 040-42018181 / +91 8237037087
