Coping Strategies

With the Holiday Season upon us, we may find ourselves in more groups and social situations.  This will mean more difficulty with communication because of the affects of noise interfering with conversation.  There are certain tactics you can use that will help you cope with hearing loss in situations that are difficult.

•  Be honest about your hearing loss.  People will be more willing to help if they know and understand the problem.  It will also explain how you may misunderstand at times. 
•  Be pro-active.  Involve other people.  Draw attention to your hearing loss by speaking distinctly and maintaining good visual contact.  Good communication skills are contagious and others will follow suit. 
•  Being well rested before an event will aid in communication.  Sometimes hearing is work and if you re tired it’s more difficult to participate. 
•  Watch people closely when they speak.  Even if you think you can’t lip read, you will gain a lot of information by watching the speakers face and mouth.
•  When you enter a conversation, try and know the subject.  If you don’t, ask.  It will make it easier because knowing the subject limits the possibilities. 
•  Do not isolate yourself.  Accept that you will not always be able to hear everything and just enjoy yourself.