Hey, Who are You Talkin’ to?

I’ve noticed a lot of information in the cyber and print world that addresses how people with hearing loss can best adapt to the world around them. It’s a real concern and legit information.

But what about people that constantly converse with those who have some sort of hearing impediment? Where’s the how’s and whatnots about how to adjust the way you talk when speaking to someone whose hearing is different than your own?

The Hearing Health Foundation (hearinghealthfoundation.org) reports that between 2000 and 2015, the number of Americans with hearing loss has doubled. So, chances are, you have contact with a person who is using hearing aids in Portland, Bend, Redmond, or another Oregon community. What can you do to make sure they feel included and understood?

Well, to help out, here are some simple guidelines for those who interact with the hearing impaired:

·         Don’t yell from another room; take the time to get closer.

·         Speak face-to-face whenever possible so they can see your face, mouth, eyes, and gestures.

·         Cut down on background noise when possible. (Turn off the water, turn down the TV, etc.)

·         Get the attention of the person with the hearing problem before you begin speaking.

·         Speak clearly and distinctly. It’s important to note that while being articulate and clear helps, shouting absolutely does not.

·         Be patient; rushing words or the conversation won’t help.

·         Be supportive. Hearing aid technology here in Oregon as well as worldwide has come a long way. Make sure those you care about get what will work best for them. The easiest way to do that? Talk to an educated audiologist. Hearing tests are simple and easy; when given and reviewed by a skilled audiologist the right equipment for the right lifestyle is the result.

If you have daily interaction with someone close to you who has hearing loss, it might even be a good idea to take that extra step and visit an audiologist here in Bend with them on one of their appointments. Get an even deeper understanding of how their hearing aid technology works and how to best interact.

It’s not hard to communicate with those using hearing aids, but it is important. There are several health condition that are connected with hearing loss. Cognitive decline, depression, and increased falls/hospitalization have all been linked to hearing loss. So, it’s really important to keep those with hearing loss around us in the loop and firmly in the conversation. It helps, a great deal.

So there you have it—you  can help too. A start to better communication, keeping in mind that it’s not just what you’re saying, but who you’re talkin’ to.