Getting a deaf persons attention
Typically, strategies used to attract the attention of a deaf person include:
- waving your hand
- if you are close by, tapping on the shoulder or upper arm of the deaf person
- if you are not close by, asking a person nearby to tap on the shoulder or upper arm of the deaf person
- call them by there name if they are not profoundly deaf
Speaking clearly
Many deaf and hard of hearing people wear hearing aids or have cochlear implants, but these devices only serve to make sounds louder.
Lip reading is a vital way most hearing impaired people register what you are saying, therefore don't shout given that it distorts mouth shaped and makes it much harder to follow.
Be patient
Lip reading is not easy and it is easy for a deaf person to not register or misinterpret what you have said, therefore repeat what you have said at the same speed and volume until they have understood correctly.
As well as, don't give up and dismiss the conversation if it is taking a lot of time to communicate what you are trying to say- stay patient otherwise it can be embarrassing for the deaf person.
Learn British Sign Language
Learning some basic, conversational BSL would help deaf people communicate more easily, and reduce the social isolation. It’s a great skill to have, and would mean so much to every deaf person you communicate with. Its a beautiful language and teaches you so much more than just signing.
Text rather than phone
On the phone to a deaf person it can be nearly impossible without being able to lip read in junction with sound/vibrations for some deaf people. Therefore, texting or emailing can be much more efficient for some deaf people.
Ask deaf people what they need
Deaf people live the deaf experience every day. If there’s something you want to know, just ask. The deaf community would rather answer questions than have to correct misconceptions.
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