Have you ever wondered how you can best support loved ones with hearing loss? For those with hearing loss, it can be very challenging to communicate with strangers, friends, or even loved ones. Why is that? Competing conversations and noises often are fatiguing for those with hearing loss
There are a number of communication strategies that you can utilize to help support those with hearing loss during this season and reduce auditory fatigue.
- Face the person while talking to them.
- Eliminate background noise and distance.
- Speak clearly and slow down your rate of speech.
- Get the person’s attention first.
- Keep directions simple.
- Rephrase rather than repeat what was said.
- Ensure lighting is optimal.
- Understand that loved ones with hearing loss will experience more auditory fatigue following situations with poor visibility of the face and visual cues.
Many individuals with hearing loss benefit from the additional support of their loved ones getting their attention and facing them. Along with that the reduction of background noise helps those with hearing loss have the ability to focus on the speech in the conversation without distractions. Communication strategies can make a large impact on those with hearing loss!
If you have concerns about hearing loss or even feel fatigued after conversations, I encourage you to schedule a hearing test with an audiologist at Hearing Associates of South Carolina. Advocate for yourself and others around you towards better hearing.
