Communication tips
10 rules when speaking to people with hearing loss
1. Make sure you have their attention and they are looking at you. Ask how they want to communicate.
2. Make sure the background noise is at a minimum.
3. Look directly at the person and don't turn away whilst talking. Ideally position yourself between three and six feet apart.
4. Make sure sufficient light is on your face.
5. Make sure that your face or mouth is not hidden behind hands, newspaper etc.
6. Keep the normal rhythm of speech but slow down slightly.
7. Do not shout.
8. Use facial expression, body language and gestures where appropiate.
9. If a sentence is not heard try to rephrase it, or as a last measure write it down.
10. Always be patient, friendly and take time to communicate.
