Communication Strategies
The following steps can make communicating easier when you're interacting with those
who have difficulty hearing or who are still adjusting to a new hearing device.
Make it Easy to Read Your Lips
- Be sure your friend or colleague has your full attention before you begin to speak.
- Face the person with whom you're talking. Don't try to converse from a different
room or with your back turned.
- Stand in well-lit areas to make reading your lips and facial expressions easier.
- Avoid activities that make lip-reading difficult like chewing, smoking, reading
the newspaper or leaning your cheek on your hand while talking.
Speak at a Natural Pace and Level
- Most hearing instruments are set to amplify a normal level of speech, so if you
shout it may be too loud for the listener.
- Try not to talk too quickly. Speak naturally, but try to pronounce your words more
clearly. This will naturally slow your speech, so be careful not to overdo it.
- If others are having trouble understanding you, try rephrasing your sentence rather
than just repeating yourself. Some words are easier than others to hear or lip-read.
Try to Reduce Background Noise
- For someone who has trouble hearing, the most difficult listening environment is
one that contains background noise. Try to eliminate background noise when holding
a conversation. Turn off the television and close any open windows to reduce outside
interference.
- Move closer to your listener so your voice is louder than the background noise.
Your face and lips will also be easier to read.
- Find somewhere quieter to talk. You'll simplify the situation and protect your own
hearing in the process.