Being an ally to individuals with hearing loss involves more than just showing support for their journey. It means actively engaging in conversations to understand how to best meet their specific needs and provide the necessary support.
Appreciating the Hard-of-Hearing Community
Distinct identities, cultures, and languages define the hard-of-hearing community. To aid effectively, allies should respect and comprehend these unique aspects.
Promoting Compromise and Respect
Supporting a loved one through hearing loss requires mutual adjustment. By working together and fostering understanding, we can eliminate stigma and promote a balanced lifestyle.
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Closed Captions on TV
Closed captions can enhance the TV-watching experience for those with hearing loss, ensuring no crucial details are missed.
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Explore Alternative
People with hearing loss might use different ways to communicate. Sign language, writing, emails can foster better understanding and effective communication.
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Communication Barriers
People with hearing loss are facing numerous communication challenges, like phone conversations, talking behind masks. Be aware of these barriers.
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Cultivate Patience
While frustration may rise when communication with people with hearing loss, remember the struggle is mutual. Patience is the optimal approach.
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Communicate Clearly
Avoid covering your mouth and maintain eye contact during conversations. Use video calling for phone conversations and consider sign language.
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Don't Hesitate to Repeat
Avoid phrases like "never mind" and rephrase your sentences for clarity when repeat. Use different words and sounds to make what you said clearer for them.
Being an ally in relationships
Romantic relationships can present unique challenges when one partner has hearing loss. Yet, there are efficient methods to overcome these obstacles and be a supportive ally in any relationship.
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Be patient
Hearing loss can might cause communication challenges, patience and understanding are invaluable in maintaining strong relationship bonds.
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Ask questions
Your questions are valid and welcomed when communicate. Through curiosity, you will gain new insights about your partner and potentially yourself.
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Seating Preferences
Be mindful of Individuals with hearing loss preferred seating arrangements to enhance their listening comfort.
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Express yourself
Express any discomfort. Clear communication can lead to a suitable compromise, strengthening your relationship.
Supporting Colleagues with Hearing Loss
Promote inclusivity by opting for meeting rooms with superior acoustics and distributing written agendas ahead of time. Employ assistive tools, like HearYou, to improve the engagement of employees with hearing loss. In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) supports acquiring assistive listening devices and prohibits disability discrimination, nurturing a more welcoming workspace.
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Written Communication
Having written communication as a backup is helpful. You can use built-in chat features on video platforms or whiteboards for this.
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Encourage Clarification
When interacting with people with hearing loss, let them know it's okay to ask for clarifications to creates a welcoming environment.
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Space for an Interpreter
Providing space for an interpreter is crucial when interviewing people who hearing loss. Ensure the interpreter has proper audio and video access.
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Stay Mindful of Environment
Since people with hearing loss often rely on visual cues, avoid sitting against bright lights or windows as it could hinder their ability to see you.
Further Suggestions for Inclusive Workplaces
For an inclusive work environment, select meeting rooms with good acoustics and share written agendas beforehand. Use assistive technologies, like HearYou, which can significantly enhance a hearing-impaired employee's participation in meetings. If you're in the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can help employees acquire such assistive listening devices upon request. This Act prohibits disability-based discrimination, fostering a more accommodating workspace.
