Communication
Communication is something that we usually take for granted, but for those who have hearing impairments and/or poor vision the art of communication can become increasingly difficult. There are many types of communication such as speech, reading and writing and sign language. Visual cues are very important to those who struggle with their hearing so seeing someone talking can improve the chances of understanding what is being said.
These are a few indications that may help you be more aware of a hearing impaired or visually impaired person:
- Listener may lean in towards you when you speak
- Listener may turn their head to one side to use their ‘better ear’ to hear you
- Listener may squint their eyes to try and focus on your face more
- Listener may not acknowledge you speaking to them until you stand in front of them, or lightly touch their arm
- Listener may reply with an unrelated response
- Listener may stay quiet throughout the conversation and make very few responses
- Listener my take control of the conversation in fear of being asked a question
Here are a few communication tactics that can be used when talking to someone with a hearing and/or sight loss:
- Make sure you have the listener’s attention before you start speaking
- Speak clearly but not too slowly
- Don’t exaggerate your lip movements – this can distort your face and the formation of words
- Use natural facial expressions and gestures
- Do not shout! It is uncomfortable for the hearing impaired/hearing aid user and it can make you look aggressive
- Do not stand in the listener’s light, especially for those who struggle with their sight
- If someone does not understand what you have said, rephrase it
- Find a suitable place to talk; well lit, away from overly loud noise and distractions
- Do not turn away, hide your face or look down whilst talking
- Check that the person you are talking to can follow your conversation
- Be patient and take the time to communicate properly
- Use plain language and do not waffle
- Avoid jargon and unfamiliar abbreviations
- If speaking on the telephone, ensure you form your words clearly
- Ask if important information be repeated back or if the listener would like you to write it down for confirmation
It is important we remember that even if a person uses hearing aids, their ability to understand and process speech can vary depending on hearing level, background noise and cognitive abilities. Please see our page on Hearing Loss and Dementia to see more in relation to the links between hearing loss and hearing aids.
If you attend an appointment at the Hearing and Balance Centre our Audiologists can go through some listening techniques and advice about how hearing aids can help in different types of situations. There is also a lot of equipment available for your home and general day-to-day life that could benefit you greatly.
Visit Connevans to find out more about equipment available that you might be interested in whether you wear a hearing aid or not.