We find that the people who are the most accepting of their hearing loss are the most successful at dealing with adverse listening situations. An article published recently in the Hearing Health Foundation magazine profiled three children with hearing loss. In order for them to learn in school and fit in with their peers, they must be able to communicate. They have some great advice including:
“You have to realize that other kids don’t know anything about hearing loss… Make sure they are facing you and that they do not cover their mouths. Talk to them in a quiet corner of the room, not in a noisy environment.”
“Sometimes it’s better to sit across from someone versus next to them. I look at people when they are talking.”
“If you embrace it [your hearing loss], you deal with it better. If I didn’t teach my classmates about hearing loss, a lot of kids would mumble and cover their lips.”
These kids have learned to advocate for themselves so they can live full lives. Adult patients aren’t much different. They also need to teach their family and friends how to talk to them. We have communication strategies handouts that we are giving out during our new hearing aid fittings. If you are a long time patient and would like some tips give us a call and we’ll mail a handout to you.
Valley Audiology is here to help you live the fullest life possible.