Communication Strategies > Tips For The Family

SUGGESTIONS FOR COMMUNICATION WITH A HEARING IMPAIRED FAMILY MEMBER

• You must come closer-allow the person with the hearing loss to see your face.
• Reduce competing noises in the room or around you.
• Reword comments or questions if there is a lack of understanding.
  
• Talk face to face.
• Be sure you have the person's attention before beginning to speak.
• Spotlight your face, not the person with the hearing loss. The glare makes speechreading difficult. Do not stand in front of the windows while talking.
• Speak in a normal tone of voice. Do not shout.
• Do not walk around the room while talking.
• Speak clearly at a moderate pace.
• Don't hide your mouth or chew gum or food while talking.
• Use facial expressions and gestures.
• Give clues when changing subjects.
• Be patient if responses or comments seem slow.
• Stay positive and relaxed.
• Seat the person so that his or her better ear is toward the source of the sound.
• Do not exaggerate mouth movements.
• Use complete sentences. Do not insult the hearing impaired person by reducing your language.
• Do not proceed too far into a discussion without making sure that the person with the hearing loss understands.
• Make sure the hearing aids work.
• Help other family members to understand the effects of hearing loss.