Communication Tips

Guidelines for Talking with Someone Who is Hard of Hearing

  • Get the person’s attention BEFORE you speak.

  • Speak slowly, but naturally.

  • Don’t shout.

  • Give the topic of conversation.

  • Rephrase when you are not understood (rather than just repeating the same words over and over).

  • Use natural facial expressions and gestures.

  • Avoid situations with background noise.

  • Be patient, positive, and relaxed.

  • Do not cover your mouth or have objects in your mouth when you are talking.

  • Talk to the hard-of-hearing person, not about him/her.

  • Sit so windows or lighting are shining on your face, not in the hard-of-hearing person’s eyes.

  • When in doubt, ask the hard-of-hearing person for suggestions to improve communication.

 

Guidelines if you are Hard of Hearing

  • Wear your hearing aids.

  • Suggest the best location to hold a conversation. Avoid poorly lit or noisy areas.

  • Anticipate difficult situations and plan an approach to deal with them.

  • Politely let those who are talking know specifically what they can do to help you.

  • Pay attention to the speaker.

  • Look for visual cues to what is being said.

  • Ask for written information, even key words, if needed.

  • Provide feedback that you understand or that you did not understand.

  • NEVER BLUFF!

  • Arrange for frequent breaks if meetings are long.

  • Provide positive feedback to the speaker if they are doing things that help you.

  • Try not to interrupt too often.

  • Do not say, “Huh?” or “What” as that signals the speaker that they should talk louder. Tell them how to help you, “Could you look at me and rephrase the question?