When your loved one has hearing loss, it can affect communication. Using clear speech can help them understand you better and reduce the frustration that you’re both feeling.

Tips For Talking to Friends and Family With Hearing Loss

Talk Face-to-Face

• Face the person you are talking to. Do not talk from a different room or with your back turned to them.

• Stand or sit where your face is well lit. This makes it easier for the other person to utilize lipreading.

• Do not talk while eating, chewing, or reading the newspaper.

Speak at a Natural Pace

• Do not shout, because it distorts the sound of your voice.

• Speak naturally, but pronounce your words clearly. Try not to talk too fast.

• If you are not understood, try rephrasing your sentence instead of repeating it.

• When you are in a group, take turns talking and do not interrupt. If the conversation topic suddenly changes, inform the person with hearing loss so it is easier for them to follow.

Reduce Background Noise

• Reduce background noise when having a conversation (e.g. turn off television, close open windows, turn off the radio).

• Move closer to your listener so that your voice is louder than the background noise.

• See if there is somewhere quieter you can talk.

If your loved one is struggling to hear conversation, you can encourage them to schedule a hearing assessment.