Communication Strategies

For Individuals With Hearing Loss
  • Tell others how best to talk with you.
  • Face your audience directly.
  • Position with back-lighting.
  • Anticipate and make a plan for difficult situations.
  • Pay attention.
  • Concentrate on the speaker.
  • Integrate visual and written cues.
  • Ask for clarification.
  • Acknowledge when communication is not understood.
  • Defer conversation when fatigued.
  • Show appreciation for efforts made when others assist you.
For Individuals Conversing With Those Who Have Hearing Loss
  • Get attention first.
  • Face and speak directly.
  • Position for face-lighting.
  • Avoid noisy environments.
  • Ask how to facilitate communication.
  • Refrain from shouting.
  • Speak clearly at a moderate pace.
  • Keep mouth cues clear.
  • Use facial expressions and gestures.
  • Rephrase if communication is not understood.
  • Give cues when changing subjects in conversation.
  • Be patient if response is slow.
  • Stay positive and relaxed.
  • Be respectful.
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