Communicating with Deaf or Hard of Hearing People

As a hearing person, we cannot fully understand what it really is like being deaf or hard of hearing. Sometimes their lack of hearing makes them disadvantaged over many of the social contents being passed around them in life.

Communication between deaf and hard of hearing people can be very different to those of us who can hear. Within the deaf communities they are able to use a combination of sign languages, finger spelling, lip-reading and writing, however when it comes to communications from a hearing person to a deaf person, it is easily to keep a couple of points in mind to make sure both parties understand each other.

1. Get the person's attention first - We know someone is trying to communicate with us because we can either hear foot steps, someone calling our names or simply by listening to the content of the speech. However it is difficult for a deaf person to sense the conversation and therefore, when talking to a deaf or hard of hearing person, make sure you have their attention by tapping on the person's shoulders and waving your hand in their field of vision to establish eye contact.

2. Make sure he/she can see you clearly - many communication methods with a deaf or hard of hearing person requires visual messages, therefore it is important that you are positioned well to ensure you are in their full view. Making sure you are not standing in the dark or in front of a bright light to obstruct their visions so that they are able to see your gestures or lip movement.

3. Full eye contact - avoid turning around or walking around them. This can both be distracting for the person and become difficult for them to see what you are trying to say. If you must break your eye contact temporarily, make sure you indicate this and stop all communications until you can regain that eye contact again.

4. Speak naturally and clearly - as it is already hard for a deaf or hard of hearing person to read your lips, you must speak naturally and clearly. Do not mumble, do not eat, drink or smoke while you are speaking as these can cause confusion in your lip movement. Speaking too quickly or too slowly will also make lip reading difficult.

5. Use simple sentence structures, but do not be patronizing - think before you speak, state your points or topic early so they know what to expect. Keep unusual or less common words at bay and keep sentences short. This allows the person whom you are speaking to understand you better. However, do not be patronizing. Lack of hearing abilities does not indicate a lack of other qualities he/she may have.

6. Use visual clues and gestures - understandably not everyone can communicate in sign language, therefore when speaking and allowing the deaf person to read your lips, it will also help to include some gestures or pointing to relevant objects to emphasis your point.

7. Finger spell or sign if you can - similar to hints about traveling with a basic knowledge of the local language, the deaf or hard of hearing person will appreciate it if you could finger spell or sign. If you have learned some skills in the past, why not use it?

8. Be patient - Do not rush through things. If they cannot understand you the first time, try again. Don't be afraid to ask if they like you to repeat certain things. Again, the person will appreciate your efforts.

9. Relax! - Deaf and hard of hearing people are just as much a part of our society than everyone else. Their different communication methods does not make them alien to the rest of the social world and therefore, there is no need to stress over having to communicate to them.

If you know in advance that you will be communicating or working with deaf and hard of hearing people, it doesn't hurt to first consult with the local deaf societies for guidance and support. This will prepare you for the conversation and you will also feel a lot more confident about communicating with deaf people in the future.