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Tips for Speaking with Someone with Hearing Loss
Hearing Loss | Last Active: Nov 23, 2021 | Replies (26)Comment receiving replies
Julie, you are such an inspiration to me, not only with your insights and suggestions, but your energy and passion for helping others. The heart of a servant. You also exhibit great wisdom with your answers and advice. I recognize and acknowledge all that and it moves me! I would love to start an HLAA chapter, but alas, I have other responsibilities, including a full-time job, independent research for which I maintain a website, grandchildren for whom I would love to just drop everything and spend 100% time with them and of course, my own immediate family (wife and daughter). On top of all that, I live a Jewish lifestyle, which means Saturday meetings are not an option. I noticed that most meetings, when held, are on Saturdays.
I appreciate your advice on learning to modulate my voice and yes, it will take practice. I'm taking "baby steps," starting off by leaving the room when accepting phone calls, and TRYING to lower my voice while speaking to others. It's not easy to do the latter, and I'm simultaneously just trying to speak less. I'm sure it's a change that's greatly appreciated!
I had never heard of "telecoils." I will need to look into those!
Thank you for such caring passion.
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My husband and I have found that putting a small flashlight at the entrance to the bedroom and living room helps more than anything else.
1. Just a small one can hang as you enter. Flick it and flash for a second and I turn around. I can't tell you the HUGE amount of relief it is to both of us. Also, I don't get startled any more. He would walk in when it was dark and I wouldn't notice because I can't hear him, then bam.... I really don't like that feeling. The flashlight has resolved tons.
2. It is much easier to gripe and complain about another's 'defects'. I doubt anyone would try to get our attention for more than 20-30 seconds if that. But there is some hidden anger in someone who says it took 3 minutes.
I call foul. That is not my fault, it is the fibber and angry person who doesn't want to 'put themselves out' 'change from what is 'normal''
3. Griping is only going to make it worse. Do they feel satisfaction knowing they griped? Unfortunately some do. Next time there is free moments, ask if you can discuss the entire hearing issue and find out what triggers the other person. Find out if there is something you can do to help that person with something in their day - they obviously think they are the only one inconvenienced by your hearing loss.
4. Finally - no one likes a disability. But it becomes bigger than all of us when it ruins a moment, or a day. Try for positive calm... that's all. Nothing spectacular, just positive calm days and nights. When others recognize that you won't stand for anger in your life, they will get on board. And they should if they love you. There is too much life changes being made at very high levels these days. We can control our home environment and staying calm it the answer. I honestly believe my hearing has gotten a touch better since I devote myself to calm-positive days.
My best to you to find peace. and a flashlight or two.