Communicating With The Deaf

• Look directly at the person.

• Don't obscure your face or mouth with your hand, facial hair, microphone, or other distractions.

• Always ask what the preferred communication method is.

• Be aware of the environment. Large and crowded areas can be very difficult for persons with some hearing loss.

• Bright sunlight and shadows can also present barriers to people who read lips.

• To gain the attention of a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, first call his or her name. If there's no response, touch them lightly on the arm or shoulder.

• Signal by moving hands where they can see.

• Speak clearly and evenly. Don't exaggerate your speech. Try rephrasing your sentence if you are asked to repeat yourself several times.

• Detailed information that involves a number or address might better be provided through an alternate means of communication.

• Don't change topics in a conversation without warning.

• Use transitional phrases such as, "Okay, we need to discuss..."

• Never say, "Just forget it.", If you' are experiencing difficulty communicating.

• If communicating orally, ask if you can write. Keep messages simple and direct.

• Communicating through an interpreter? Don't say, "Tell her that..."

• Don't speak to the interpreter nor try to involve him/her in the conversation.

• Focus on the deaf individual.