9 tips for talking to someone with hearing loss

Originally written March 20, 2018

Communication is important, but it's especially critical for those who have partial or full hearing loss. In order to ensure that they do not miss out on conversations and discussions, try these tips:

Face them directly

If you face your guest, they can see your mouth and facial expressions. The visual cues will add additional information to help them hear better.

Speak clearly, slowly, and distinctly

While speaking a little bit louder may help, shouting actually distorts your voice. And take your time saying what you have to say. There’s a better chance you won’t have to say it a second time.

Don’t block your face with your hands

Covering your mouth, eating, and smoking block visual cues that can help dad understand you.

Don’t talk from another room

Just like blocking your face, if you’re in another room and they can’t see what you’re saying, they're going to have a hard time understanding you. The added distance also makes your voice quieter and harder to understand.

Don’t interrupt other speakers

Simultaneous speakers can be very confusing. If you don’t wait for someone else to finish speaking, the person with hearing loss might not notice that you’ve said something and can lose the thread of the conversation.

Minimize extraneous/loud noises

Loud noises distract and interfere with speech. Turn off the TV and avoid large groups settings if you want to chat.

Get their attention first

If they are paying attention to you, it's going to be much easier to communicate.

Pay attention to him

Make sure to pay attention to their reactions. Do they look confused or struggling follow the conversation? Paying attention to them can let you know if you have to repeat something you just said.

Be patient

Remember, as frustrating as it is to have to repeat things, it is also frustrating to have to ask people to repeat them. People with hearing loss can hear in your tone if you are irritated and will give up on attempts to communicate.

Hearing loss doesn't have to rid you or your loved ones of conversations. At CEENTA, our audiologists and ENT physicians work together to determine the cause of your hearing loss and suggest hearing aid options that are customized just for you. To schedule an audiology appointment with CEENTA, call 704-295-3300.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. If you or someone you love has hearing loss, make an appointment with a CEENTA audiologist by calling 704-295-3300. You can also schedule an appointment online or through myCEENTAchart.