Hearing loss is common to older adults, affecting
one in three people older than 60 and half of those older than 85.1 Hearing loss can compromise how a person processes
health information, leading to misunderstandings, fatigue, and the need to
repeat information.2
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What You Can
Do |
Starter
Tips |
|
Limit background noise.
|
- Try to find a quiet place to speak with
older adults.
- Close a door if possible to limit noises
that compete with your voice.
|
|
Speak clearly with more volume.
|
- It is important to speak clearly to
someone with a hearing loss. Speaking louder can also help, but you do not need
to shout.
|
|
Optimize face-to-face communication.
|
- Sit close to older adults and face them
as you speak, to enhance their ability to lip read.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Do not block your mouth with your hand or
a clipboard. Do not chew gum or eat while speaking.
|
|
Ask older adults with hearing loss
to restate instructions and other important information in their own
words. |
- Having an older adult restate
instructions and important information helps you know you have been heard. Some
people with a hearing loss may nod along with you even though they do not hear
clearly.
Note: This tip works
for everyone, not just people with hearing loss. Consider using it when
providing important instructions. |
|
Be sensitive to individual
needs. |
- Like visual impairments, hearing loss can
vary widely among older adults. Do not assume every person with a hearing loss
needs or wants the same kind of assistance.
|
You may find the following resources on hearing
loss and older adults helpful.
