Tips for coping with hearing loss

October 12, 2009 — Question: As hard as it is for me to admit, I am getting older and am starting to have trouble hearing. What are some tips that can help my family and me cope with my hearing loss?

Answer: Here are 10 tips people who are hard of hearing (HOH) can use to help them improve communication with others, as adapted from "Tips for HOH People" by Steve Barber:

Be prepared: Make sure you have, and know how to use, the best hearing aid and assistive technology you can get.

Don't bluff: Many HOH people try to hide their hearing loss. This is a big mistake. It doesn't fool anyone. Tell people you don't hear well. Most people are happy to help someone with a hearing loss once they are aware of it.

Be specific about asking for help. Ask them to get your attention before they start to talk. Ask that only one person talk at a time. Ask that they make it clear when the topic changes. Explain that you understand better if you can see their face and lips. If you miss something, tell them what you did hear and ask them to repeat the part you missed. In noisy situations, suggest moving to a more quiet location.

Pick your best location: Arrive at meetings early and sit where you can hear best. Choose a position that's quiet and has good lighting.

Anticipate: Plan ahead for what questions are likely to be asked next, such as "Do you want fries with that?" or "What is your date of birth?" or "What is your phone number?" When possible, provide answers to follow-up questions in advance.

Pay attention: Concentrate on the speaker. Most people provide visual cues of what is being said through facial expressions, body language and lip movement. Learn to use these as effectively as possible.

Take the pressure off: The person you are speaking with may be afraid of you not understanding them. Let them know that the hearing loss is your problem … not theirs.

Advocate: Many public places — like hotels, churches, libraries, museums, stadiums, auditoriums, theaters, etc. — should provide assistive listening technology. When available, use it. When not available, explain how important it is and that it may be required under disability laws. Few managers understand what is needed or most appropriate. Your courteous comments and advice may be welcomed.

Never give up: Hearing is hard work for HOH people and it is too easy to just stop listening. Keep trying and don't hesitate to ask for clarification.

Show your appreciation: Make sure that anyone who goes out of their way to help you understands how much you appreciate their help.

Bobbie Monroe is an audiologist at Holy Family Memorial's Lakeshore Ear, Nose & Throat.

By Bobbie Monroe published on HTR News