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Communication Tips For The Family

If you are speaking to a friend or family member who has a hearing loss , the following tips may enhance communication:


  • Speak slightly louder than normal, but do not shout. This can distort your speech and will not make your message any clearer.
  • Speak slowly and distinctly.
  • Get the person's attention before speaking. The best distance for speaking to a hearing-impaired person is three to six feet.
  • Face the person you are speaking with and place yourself at their eye level so other visual cues can be seen.
  • Never speak directly into the person's ear. This can distort the message and hide all visual cues.
  • Be aware of nonverbal communication. Facial expressions, gestures, lip and body movements all give clues to the meaning of the message you are trying to send.
  • Use short, simple sentences. If the person does not appear to understand or responds inappropriately, rephrase your statement.