When we communicate, we share ideas, feelings and information with others. This is usually done by speaking and listening. If someone you know has a hearing loss, verbal communication can be a challenge. Words or sentences may be misunderstood during the conversation, and wrong messages could be received.
Effective communication involves active participation by both speaker and listener. The following tips can be used to enhance communication with those who have hearing loss.
Tips for the speaker
- Get the listener’s attention before speaking.
- Be at the listener’s eye level and make eye contact…stand, sit, or kneel.
- Make sure to keep light in your face and stay out of shadows.
- Avoid chewing gum, eating or drinking while talking.
- Stay put…try not to move around while talking.
- Keep important messages short and to the point.
- Repeat or rephrase important messages.
Tips for the listener
- Tell people you have a hearing loss.
- Get your hearing checked. Call Dr. Go and Dr. Hutchinson audiology, ear, hearing, audiology, and otology specialists at 321-421-7555 for an appointment. Office 2290 West Eau Gallie Blvd., Suite 110, Melbourne, Florida 32935.
- Use visual information (facial expressions, gestures) to show you are actively listening to the message.
- Do not pretend to understand when you do not.
- Ask the speaker to repeat, rephrase, or to confirm what you heard.
- Don’t be afraid to ask the speaker to speak slower/louder/softer, or to face you.
- Carry a pen and pad. Ask to have important information (phone numbers, appointments) written down.
- When possible, have a “listening buddy”- someone who can review the speaker’s message with you.
Tips for the environment
- When possible, find a quiet, comfortable and well-lit area for the conversation.
- When dining out:
- Sit with noise behind you and face the speaker.
- Choose times that are less busy to avoid crowd noise.
- Pick restaurants that have areas that are sectioned off. This helps control noise.
- In very noisy areas, keep conversation at a minimum. Save it for another time and place where you can understand and enjoy the conversation.
- When at home, turn off the television, radio, dishwasher, etc. during conversations.
These tips are supported by studies of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and help increase the awareness of the communication difficulties of individuals with hearing loss. Further information is available on the ASHA website, www.asha.org/public or by contacting Dr. Hutchinson at 321-421-7555. Dr. Hutchinson and Dr. Go can be seen at 2290 West Eau Gallie Boulevard, Suite 110, Melbourne, Florida 32935. Dr. Go and Dr. Hutchinson have a special interest in medical hearing treatment,
