Communication tips for hearing people.

Communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing isn't difficult. There are a number of basic rules you can follow to help successful communication. Be patient and take the time to communicate properly.

Use these tips to communicate successfully with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing:

• Even if someone is wearing a hearing aid it doesn't mean they can hear you. Ask if they need to lipread.
• If you are using communication support always remember to talk directly to the person you are communicating with, not the interpreter.
• It is important to make sure you have face-to-face or eye-to-eye contact with the person you are talking to.
• Make sure you have the listener's attention before you start speaking.
• Speak clearly but not too slowly, and don't exaggerate your lip movements.
• Use natural facial expressions and gestures.
• If you're talking to a deaf person and a hearing person, don't just focus on the hearing person.
• Don't shout. It's uncomfortable for a hearing aid user and it looks aggressive.
• If someone doesn't understand what you've said, don't keep repeating it. Try saying it in a different way instead.
• Find a suitable place to talk, with good lighting and away from noise and distractions.
• Check that the person you're talking to can follow you. Be patient and take the time to communicate properly.
• Use plain language and don't waffle. Avoid jargon and unfamiliar abbreviations.

This is an articles by RNID