The Hearing, Speech & Deafness Center gives presentations to groups on a variety of topics related to hearing loss. Additionally, we are in the process of scheduling the next series of classes offered at HSDC. Please contact our Audiology department if you would like to learn more about upcoming classes at HSDC or to schedule a presentation. Topics Include:
Aural Rehabilitation
Speech reading and lipreading
Communication strategies for hard of hearing people
How to interpret an audiogram (hearing test results)
Assistive listening devices
Hearing aid technology
Communication Tips
Environmental Tips to Improve Communication
Reduce background noise...
Turn off radio / television / stereo
Suggest moving to a quite location
Reduce the distance between you and the listener...
Do not try to talk to the person from a different room
Good lighting is essential...
Light should be on the speaker's face, not shining into the listener's eyes
Listeners with hearing loss draw visual cues from the lips and face, as well as gestures
Tips for Friends and Family to Improve Communication
Be supportive of the person with hearing loss...
Accompany them to their hearing evaluation and other hearing care appointments
Education about hearing loss leads to better communication and understanding
Always get the listener's attention before speaking...
Say the person's name
Do not shout!
Shouting distorts the face and makes you look angry
Speak slowly and clearly...
Say the "ends" of all your words. Rather than "how"rya feelin t"day?" say "How are you feeling today?"
Do not cover your mouth or speak with objects in it...
Objects in front of the mouth impede speechreading
Use gestures or sign language when talking...
Gestures help with understanding. For example; if asking "what time is it?", point to your watch
American Sign Language (ASL) is useful and interesting to learn, and can connect you with a larger Deaf and hard of hearing community; take a class at a local community college
Re-phrase rather than repeat...
If the listener didn't understand the first time, specific words may be difficult; try saying it a different way
Be patient...
It is just as frustrating for the listener who has hearing loss as it is for you when there is a breakdown in understanding; share the responsibility
Communication Tips for the Hard of Hearing Listener
Have your hearing evaluated and treated...
Understanding your hearing loss is the first step in communication improvement
Work with your audiologist to plan a hearing rehabilitation program that is appropriate for your unique hearing lifestyle
Accurate information about your hearing loss leads to communication success
Pay attention to the speaker...
Listen to what the speaker is saying; do not try to talk over them
Plan ahead...
Think about challenges in the listening environment and consider possible solutions
Example: Requesting a quieter table in a restaurant
Make specific suggestions about how to best communicate with you...
Instead of saying "What?", ask the speaker to slow down or repeat only the part you did not hear
Double check details...
Repeating or confirming what you understood can prevent confusion later on
Do not bluff!
Pretending you understand when you don't can be frustrating and embarrassing for everyone
Aural Rehabilitation