Living well with hearing loss.
Being newly diagnosed can feel overwhelming. With the right information and a little support, you can keep communicating confidently and stay fully in your own life.
CC“I just want to keep up at work.”
Strategies that work, day to day.
Your hearing specialist will explain the type and degree of hearing loss you have. They will recommend what comes next, whether that is hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or communication strategies. Ask questions. Take your time. Knowing what you are dealing with is the first step to adjusting well.
- Face the speaker, so you can see facial expressions and lip movements.
- Reduce background noise where you can. Turn off the television, move somewhere quieter, or ask to meet in a calm space.
- Ask for clear communication, such as speaking a little slower, or rephrasing rather than simply repeating.
- Use good lighting, so visual cues are easy to pick up.
- Tell people about your hearing loss. Most are glad to adjust once they understand.
- Take breaks in noisy environments, to avoid listening fatigue.
- Explore assistive technology: captioning apps, amplified telephones, television streamers.
- Join a support group or community program, where shared experience does what no device can.
The emotional side is normal
It is normal to feel frustrated or uncertain at first. Most people find that communication gets easier and more natural with time, patience and support.
Stay socially connected. Ask for what you need. Practise new strategies. All of it builds your confidence back.
You are not doing this alone
Audiologists, hearing specialists, community organizations and peer networks can all help you build the skills and the confidence.
With the right tools and strategies, you can keep taking full part in conversations, relationships and everyday life.
Real people, a message away.
Everyday life with hearing loss is something our members know inside out. Borrow their shortcuts. A real person answers every message.