How to Communicate with Individuals that Have Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be subtle or it can be obvious, if you suspect someone has hearing impairments you can try talking more loudly or standing closer, but if you know they have an issue but don't wear a device, it's a good idea to reduce background noise, get their attention before speaking and talk a slower pace as well. Making this effort will make a big difference to how much they understand, the effort will also be appreciated.

Face Them and Stand Close 

Some people with hearing impairments often use other information such as body language to understand the meaning of what's being said. That's why it's not very helpful if people stand far away and cover their faces when they talk. 

If you know the person you are speaking to is hearing impaired it's best practice to face them and stand close. When you do this, they can see what you're saying and pick up the audio at the same time. 

Speak Clearly and Loudly 

If you have a hearing impairment but don't use a hearing aid device you can benefit from people speaking more loudly, but this is different from shouting. When someone shouts their mouth changes shape making it harder to lipread, it also distorts the sound. 

The best way to communicate with someone who has hearing loss is to stand close and increase the volume of what you say without shouting. This not only gives them more decibels to work with, it also allows them to read your lips and body language. 

Get Their Attention

When someone can't hear properly because of a hearing impairment, attention is also important. In order to hear through the impairment you need to concentrate more on what's being said. For this reason, you need to get their attention first. 

Call their name before speaking to them, and make sure they are focused on your face and what you have to say. This increases the chance of them hearing you and interpreting what you've said correctly. 

Talk at A Slow Pace

Someone with a hearing impairment might be able to hear what you are saying but they might also miss some words or phrases. Due to the hearing impairment, they will probably let this slide and attempt to interpret the meaning but this isn't always helpful. 

If you know you are talking to someone with a hearing impairment, slow down your pace of talking and give them plenty of time to latch onto the meaning of the dialogue.  

Reduce Background Noise

Even if you don't have a hearing impairment it can be challenging to hear people against the background noise of heavy traffic outside or an internal fan. The room goes much quieter when you switch off devices and close windows. 

It's even more important if you're in a room with someone that is hearing impaired. As well as the tips above it is also good practice to reduce any background noise as far as possible to create the best conditions for communication.