Did you know that hearing loss is the second largest disability in the world, and is an invisible one as well. Not only are there a lot of deaf and hard of hearing people, but you can’t actually tell who they are.
Photo via Hamlet Hub
Hearing loss affects a large number of people from around the world and it’s not something to joke about, to laugh at, to get irritated by, to use as an insult or to feel sorry for…
Here’s the best way you can communicate with someone with hearing difficulties or who’s deaf, according to Hearing Link.
#1 Enhancing communication
Commuting with someone with a hearing loss can be difficult compared to speaking to a hearing person, however, there are some things you can do to enhance communication between you and someone who has a hearing loss.
It’s always important to:
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Find somewhere quiet to talk if possible
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Always face the deaf person you are speaking to
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Make sure there is good light and keep the light on your face, so it’s easier for them to lipread
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Gain their attention first! This is easily done by tapping them on the arm or shoulder if appropriate, preferably from the front and not behind them.
#2 Using gestures and expressions
Those who lipread gain a lot of additional information from facial expressions and natural hand gestures.
These are useful but do not exaggerate them. Unnecessary hand movement or any physical movements can be very distracting.
Many people try to help by shouting and by exaggerating the pronunciation of words, which does not help. People who wear hearing aids can experience extreme discomfort if people shout at them. It is better to speak clearly and a little louder than usual, and not too fast.
#3 Repeating or rephrasing what you say
Despite your best efforts there may be times when what has been said has not been understood by a lip reader.
Try repeating the sentence again if necessary and then perhaps rephrase what you want to say. You may not be aware of this but some words are more difficult to lip read than others.
The common is that the hearing person either walks away because they can’t be bothered, are scared, or they stand still and ignore the deaf individual.
Let’s not have that happen again! Be kind to each other, guys!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
