How to Help the Hearing Impaired

It can be very frustrating to be hearing impaired. People do not always understand the disability, and communication can become difficult. There are ways you can help the hearing impaired. By making a few small changes, you can make a discussion less frustrating for both parties, and communicate more effectively in the process.

Instructions

1. Understand that deaf and hearing-impaired people are intelligent, functioning adults. Do not talk down to a hearing-impaired person as though they are a child.

2. Speak louder, not slower. A person who is hard of hearing may require extra volume, but they still process words very quickly. Talk with normal speed and cadence. Talking too slowly does not improve understanding; it only serves to annoy you both.

3. Remember that some hard of hearing people lip-read. Face the person while speaking to them, and keep your hands away from your mouth. If you are dining with a hearing-impaired person, sit directly across from them. Speak only when your mouth is empty and never from behind your glass. Call the restaurant in advance to request a private table, where speaking loudly will not disturb other diners.

4. Make concessions when visiting a hearing-impaired person's home. Speak loudly without being asked. Ignore excessive volume on the radio or television. If the extreme noise bothers you, bring earplugs to your visit. Remember this is their home, and you are only a visitor.

5. Be a hard-of-hearing advocate. Do everything you can to make yourself understood. If one method fails, try another, but do not give up. The hearing impaired person you are speaking to is worthy of your time and attention. Do not be dismissive just because they have a disability. Always treat a hearing impaired person with respect.

Tips & Warnings

• Voice pitch can make a difference to some hard of hearing people. Women, in particular, should try lowering their voice by half an octave. It may help them be better understood.