You and those around you

It is important to remember that successful communication requires the efforts of at least two people, also when one of the persons has a hearing loss.

If you have a hearing loss, there are a number of things you can do to help the people around you become better at helping you. A good starting point is to tell them openly about your hearing loss and about your hearing needs. In that way, you take active part in breaking down some of the prejudices associated with hearing loss. The problem is often that other people do not have sufficient knowledge about the consequences of hearing loss and what they can do to help.

Ask questions when needed

It is a good idea to ask questions to make sure that you know what the topic of the conversation is. This way, you can avoid unnecessary misunderstandings. People with normal hearing also ask if they do not catch the meaning.

On the other hand, people with normal hearing can help you by providing you regularly with key words.

Find those who best understand your problems

Self-help group
People with hearing loss can help each other. It is a good idea to share your experience and advice with people who experience the same problems as you.

You have a right to hear and understand what is being said

Hearing tactics for people with hearing loss
Read more about how to optimise communication.

It takes two to make communication in a relationship work

Hearing loss in a relationship
Here you can read more about how hearing loss affects a relationship.

When people with hearing loss are stung by their own prejudices

Stigma
There are a number of prejudices associated with hearing loss. Read more about why people with hearing loss easily get the feeling of ‘not being part of the group’ and deviating from the norm in an embarrassing and socially unacceptable way.

Did you know…

Many hearing impaired people feel isolated, have low self-respect and feel that those around them do not understand the consequences of hearing impairment.