For someone with hearing loss, social situations are challenging. Help improve communication with them by following these simple tips:
• Gain their attention before you begin talking.
• Speak naturally & don’t shout. Speak distinctly, at a normal rate, using pauses to give the person time to process speech.
• Keep your hands away from your face while talking.
• Avoid sudden changes of topic. And if the subject is changed, tell them what you are talking about now.
• Seat them where they can see as many faces as possible.
• Check in. If you think your listener may not be following, convey the information again in shorter, clearer sentences.