Teaching Strategies for People with Hearing Loss

Understanding and Accommodating Hearing Loss

This transcript provides tips on how to make evidence-based wellness programs more inclusive and welcoming for individuals with hearing loss or deafness.

Accommodating Participants with Hearing Loss or Deafness

• During the registration process, ask individuals if they need accommodations to participate.

• Provide effective communication by setting aside funds or accommodations including interpreter services or assisted listening devices.

• Gain attention, face the person, and speak clearly in a normal tone of voice. Eliminate ambient noise as much as possible.

• Present all instructions using non-verbal formats such as written or picture form sign language interpretation, or a video with closed captioning. Arrange seats in a horseshoe or circle if possible.

• Everyone should identify themselves when speaking. Be sure to speak to the participant not the interpreter. Don't forget about technology such as closed captioning speak-to-text apps, and assistive listening devices which can enhance a participant's learning experience.

• For participants who do not use a regular phone, dial 711 to reach the National Telecommunications Relay Service and speak to them through a specially trained operator. If you call a participant, let the phone ring longer than usual.

For additional tips and information visit NCHPAD's website at www.nchpad.org