Communicating on the phone can be challenging for individuals with hearing loss. It’s a relevant topic, as more than one in 10 individuals in the U.S. report some form of hearing loss. However, with the right strategies and tools, phone conversations with hearing loss can be quite manageable. Read along for some helpful tips for talking on the phone with hearing loss, and discuss how hearing aids can enhance your phone communication experience.
Making the Most of Hearing Aids
The Role of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are highly effective in managing hearing loss. They amplify sounds and can be fine-tuned to the user’s specific hearing needs. Modern hearing aids often come with features designed to improve phone conversations, such as Bluetooth® connectivity. Utilizing these features can significantly enhance your ability to hear and understand speech over the phone.
Tips for Using Hearing Aids on the Phone
- Bluetooth connectivity: Many hearing aids can connect directly to smartphones via Bluetooth. This allows the phone’s audio to stream directly to your hearing aids, providing clearer sound.
- Volume control: Adjust the volume on your hearing aids and your phone to a comfortable level. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. If you’re finding you’re consistently needing to turn up the volume each time, schedule a hearing test, as your hearing could have worsened.
- Speakerphone: Use the speakerphone feature to hear the conversation through both ears. This can improve clarity and make it easier to follow the conversation.
- Adjust settings: Consult with your audiologist about programming a dedicated phone setting on your hearing aids. This can optimize the hearing aids’ performance specifically for phone use by reducing background noise or other adjustments.
- Use video calling: Video calls will allow for context clues and lip-reading to help fill in the blanks for things you may have missed.
- Utilize the Do Not Disturb feature: The Do Not Disturb function can help prevent other notifications from coming through during your phone conversation, minimizing distractions that might make it harder to hear.
General Tips for Phone Conversations
Preparing for the Call
- Quiet environment: Ensure you are in a quiet environment with minimal background noise. This will help you focus on the conversation without distractions.
- Strong signal: Make sure your phone has a strong signal to avoid any interruptions or poor sound quality during the call.
During the Call
- Clarify and repeat: Don’t hesitate to ask the caller to speak more slowly or to repeat themselves if needed. Clarifying information can prevent misunderstandings.
- Confirm details: Repeat important information back to the caller to ensure you have understood correctly. This is especially important for phone numbers, addresses or appointment times.
Talking on the phone with hearing loss doesn’t have to be frustrating. By using the features of modern hearing aids, creating a conducive environment and employing effective communication strategies, you can improve your phone conversations significantly. For more personalized advice and support, consider consulting with a hearing specialist who can guide you through the process and help you make the most of your hearing aids. Contact Decibel Hearing Services to schedule an appointment today.