Active listening is a form of listening that shows the person speaking that you’re engaged and comprehending what’s being said. For those with hearing loss, active listening skills can be utilized to help compensate for potentially missing what’s being said. By focusing intently on the speaker and using active listening strategies, individuals with hearing loss can better grasp the context of conversations, improving communication efficacy. The following strategies can be widely adopted, as nearly 20% of the global population lives with hearing loss.
Active Listening Strategies
Consider these active listening strategies to stay engaged in conversations.
Position Yourself Appropriately
In conversation or at speaking events, seat yourself so that you can clearly see the speaker’s face. This not only helps with lip reading but also allows you to pick up on facial expressions and other non-verbal cues that are integral parts of communication. Additionally, do your best to reduce the amount of space between you and the person speaking. Try to ensure lighting, such as a window, is behind you and not the speaker so shadows don’t interfere with your ability to see lip reading and facial expressions.
Minimize Background Noise
Choose environments with minimal background noise for conversations. Background noise can significantly impair the ability of someone with hearing loss to hear clearly, so reducing this noise can improve understanding. Sit with at least one ear, whichever has better hearing, toward the speaker and do your best to eliminate distracting sounds such as music, televisions or kitchen noise at places like The Standing Room Restaurant.
Ask for Clarification
Don’t be afraid to ask the speaker to repeat themselves if something isn’t clear. This ensures you fully understand the message and signals to the speaker to perhaps adjust their delivery. Use the strategy of summarizing information and repeating it back to the speaker to confirm your comprehension. This can help clarify any points of confusion and show your engagement. Be open to acknowledging your hearing loss and asking for help.
Take Breaks
Listening intently can be mentally exhausting, particularly for those with hearing loss. Allow yourself short breaks during long conversations to avoid fatigue and maintain concentration. Additionally, try to stay relaxed and keep your sense of humor. This allows conversations to flow and keeps your mindset positive as opposed to frustrated.
Wear Your Hearing Aids
Incorporating hearing aids into active listening strategies can significantly improve the experience and outcomes for those with hearing loss. Hearing aids are designed to amplify sounds, making it easier to hear voices and thus engage in conversations more effectively. Modern hearing aids are equipped with features like noise reduction, directional microphones, and connectivity to other devices, enhancing the ability to focus on speech even in loud settings. Hearing aids are a great tool for staying engaged with others while living with hearing loss.
Active listening is an empowering tool for anyone, but it holds value for those dealing with hearing loss. By employing thoughtful strategies and considering the use of hearing aids, you can maintain relationships with others and remain socially engaged.
To schedule a hearing evaluation or learn more about hearing aids, contact Torrance Audiology today to schedule an appointment.