Communication Classes

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