Genie Networks Altrincham - How to communicate with a deaf person

How to Communicate with a Deaf Person

Communication is hard work. It can be frustrating and stressful for the deaf person. You need to be patient and understanding. The guide below will hopefully make it easier for you as an individual to communicate more effectively with your deaf friend, deaf colleague or deaf family member.

What is communication?
Communication is part of everyday life. We use communication as a two way process of exchanging thoughts and information. We use communication as a way of expressing ourselves as individuals.

How do we communicate?
For many hearing people speech is used to communicate. deaf people use various methods of communication. Those without speech often use alternative forms of communication e.g. sign language. Many hearing people avoid communicating with a deaf person without realising that there are simple tactics you can use to communicate.

To get their attention.....
Firstly you need to gain the deaf person's attention. This can be done by making eye contact, tapping the person's shoulder, flashing the light or waving. if the person is deafblind you should tap them on the shoulder or elbow. Some deaf people may be able to hear you if you call their name, but be aware they may not respond.

Preparation.....
– Make sure you are on the same level as the person either sitting down or standing up.
– Be sure to maintain eye contact.
– Position yourself 3-6 feet from the person.
– Have a pen and paper available to write down certain words if needed.
– Make sure the person can see your face clearly.
– Stay still - don't walk about whilst you are Communicating.

Your environment.....
– Make sure the room is quiet.
– Be sure the background is suitable e.g. no mirrors, people walking around.
– Room temperature - not too hot or cold.
– Minimise distraction in the room.
– Make sure the lighting is good and the light should be facing you.
– Avoid standing in front of a window or a light background.
– If someone esle tries to get your attention or speaks, ask them to wait.
– Set a time limit or take short breaks as lipreading can be tiring.

How to commujicate.....
– Speak clearly and maintain a normal rhythm of speech.
– Introduce the subject of the conversation first.
– Give the deaf person time to take in what you are saying.
– If in a group make the deaf person aware of who is speaking and allow one person to speak at a time.
– Try to avoid using technical terms/jargon.
– Do not eat whilst you are talking.
– Avoid putting your hands or objects in front of your mouth.
– Do not exaggerate your lip patterns or expressions.
– Do not shout!
– If the person does not understand, use appropriate gestures or write down using plain English.
– Speak to the Deaf person, not the hearing person.