1.      Get the person’s attention before you speak.

You can avoid frustration and reduce the need to repeat things by calling their name first and wait for a response.

 

2.   Do not have objects in your mouth such as gum, cigarettes, or food.

 

3.      Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.

The best distance for communication is 3 to 6 feet. If you speak at a slow-to-normal rate and pause between sentences, you’ll give the listener time to catch up.

           

4.      Use facial expression and gestures.

This helps fill in the blanks and adds more information.

 

5.      Give clues when changing the subject.

Tell the listener what you are talking about.

 

6.      Rephrase when you are not understood.

If one or two words keep tripping someone up, try using a different word. For example, rephrase ‘Do you want a drink?’ to ‘Would you like some water?”.

 

7.      Don’t shout.

Shouting makes you look and sound angry. It actually distorts the sound signal. It is better to make sure the listener can see you and speak slightly louder than normal.

 

8.   Avoid noisy background situations.

 

Ask the host for the quietest table in the restaurant. Turn off distracting background noise such as the television, radio or dishwasher.

 

9.   Be patient, positive and relaxed.

 

It may take more time to learn how best to talk with someone. Use humor, experiment and ask how you can help.

 

10. Talk TO the hard of hearing person, not ABOUT him or her to the partner.

 

 

 

Always Repeat if Asked. Saying ‘Never mind’ can make someone feel unimportant.