44
• Let others know what you need; keep in mind
that people cannot “see” your hearing loss
• Develop realistic expectations of what your
hearing instruments can and cannot do
• Better hearing with hearing instruments
is a learned skill combining desire, practice
and patience
For your Family and Friends
Your family and friends are also affected by your
hearing loss. Request that they:
• Get your full attention before beginning
to speak
• Look at you or sit face-to-face in a quiet room
• Speak clearly and at a normal rate and level;
shouting can actually make understanding
more difficult
• Rephrase rather than repeat the same words;
different words may be easier to understand
• Minimize distractions while speaking
tips FOr better COMMuniCatiOn
