Communication tips:
Deaf and hard of hearing persons

Most Important: Relax! Every new situation offers plenty of opportunities for awkwardness or embarrassment, including communicating for the first time with a person with a hearing loss. With a little patience, some creativity and an open mind, you will soon determine the best way to communicate.

• Ask the person how you can best accommodate his/her communication needs. When the person requests an interpreter, be sure to accommodate that request.

• Be sure that you have the person’s attention before you start to speak. For example, tap the individual’s shoulder, turn off/on lights, etc.

• Look directly at the person and speak slowly but naturally. Do not over articulate.

• Do not speak directly into the person’s ears and do not shout.

• Do not speak with objects in or near your mouth (gum, pencils, cigarettes, hands).

• Stand in a well-lit area of the room. Make sure the light is on your face, not behind you.

• Do not be in constant motion when speaking, such as pacing the floor or rocking in a chair.

• Eliminate as much background noise as possible.

• If the person does not appear to understand what is being said, rephrase the statement rather than repeating the misunderstood words over and over again.

• If you write to a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, keep the message short and simple.

• Do not speak to a person who is deaf or hard of hearing at a distance greater than 6 feet or less than 3 feet.