Have realistic expectations, ie. choose a restaurant that is less noisy, meet friends in a café during off-peak times, and be aware that it can be harder if the person has an unfamiliar accent
Say what you need to improve communication – ie. “Because of my hearing loss, I need you to write that down or say it in a different way”
Be specific as to what you didn’t understand, i.e “Did you say X or Y?”
Don’t bluff or avoid conversations
Ask people for feedback, i.e. to let you know when your hearing aid is whistling or when you are shouting
Try a hearing aid or assistive listening device, i.e. an amplified telephone, PA system, meeting microphone
As someone talking to someone with hearing difficulties…
Use your facial expressions to explain what you are saying
Keep your face clear of anything (i.e. your hand or moustache) that may prevent the listener seeing what you say
Try to use words and phrases that the listener is familiar with
Try to use more shorter simpler sentences than highly complex sentences
Speak at a slower rate – not exaggeratedly slow, because that may be worse – just a bit slower than usual
Enunciate your words – don’t exaggerate, just speak clearly
Raise your voice slightly – don’t shout because that can make things worse
Communication strategies for everyone…
Reduce background noise or distractions
Get the listener’s attention FIRST – let them know you are talking to them
Directly face each other and relatively close (within 1.8meters)
Make sure the speaker(s) face and lips are clear – avoid shadows on the speaker’s face by not having light behind the person talking
