How do I communicate with people who are deaf/hearing impaired?

There are five methods of communication used by people with hearing difficulties; sign language, finger spelling, handwriting, lip reading and hearing aids. We should not assume that, if a person is deaf or hearing impaired, they can use or understand sign or lip-read, for example. A method preferred by one individual may not be suited to another.

A few basic rules can be followed to aid communicating with a colleague who is deaf or has a hearing impairment.

Converse in a quiet environment or move to one in order to facilitate communication. Amplification devices are very sensitive to ambient noise.
Speak clearly and avoid unnecessary jargon.
If in a group or at a meeting, only one person should speak at a time
If you need to attract the attention of a person who is deaf or hearing impaired, touch him or her lightly on the shoulder.
If the person lip-reads, look directly at them. Speak clearly at a normal pace. Do not exaggerate your lip movements or shout. Speak expressively because the person will rely on your facial expressions, gestures and eye contact.
Position yourself about three to six feet directly in front of the person in an area that is well lit, but avoid sitting in front of a bright window.
Do not cover your mouth or eat, keeping hands, pens, cigarettes etc. away from your face when speaking.
There is no need to shout. Only raise your voice when requested. Brief, concise written notes may be helpful.
Do not turn away when speaking, and allow time for what you said to be absorbed by the person.
If an interpreter is present, it is commonplace for the interpreter to be seated opposite the person with the hearing impairment.
Interpreters facilitate communication. They should not be consulted or regarded as a reference for the interview.
Speak clearly and at a pace that allows the sign-language interpreter to interpret for the person who is deaf and to allow him or her to respond through the interpreter.
Support colleagues/employees who may wish to train as sign language interpreters.

Wednesday, 2 July 2008