Support - Friends & Family

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Friends & Family

If you have a friend or family member with hearing loss, your support is extremely important. They may feel helpless, and even hopeless, at not being able to communicate effectively. In an effort to be helpful, you may feel you should do all the communicating for your friend or family member who has a hearing loss; this is not only exhausting for you, but it doesn't actually help the person.

Allow them to learn to overcome their hearing difficulties. Be supportive of any emotions they may be experiencing and encourage them to avoid being socially isolated. The more they experience various listening situations, the easier it will become. Keep in mind that they may get tired as it takes a tremendous amount of effort to follow a conversation. This too will get better with practice.

Communication

The following strategies can help when communicating with a person with hearing loss. Remember that the first step in effective communication is consistent use of hearing aids.

		Reduce background noise by turning down the television or radio, turning off the dishwasher or fan etc.

		Ensure conversation areas are well lit so the listener can watch facial expressions.

		Avoid conversations in the car where it is difficult to hear between the front and back seats.

		Reduce the distance between you and the listener, and be sure to look directly at the person when speaking.

		Ensure you have the listener's attention before you begin speaking.

		Speak naturally. Avoid loud, exaggerated speech.

		Do not speak too quickly. Allow the listener time to fully comprehend the conversation.

		Repeat or rephrase a misunderstood message.

		If necessary, use a notepad to write comments or questions, especially in noisy situations.

		Do not cover your mouth or chew gum or food when speaking.

		In large groups, ensure only one person at a time is speaking.

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