Communicating with People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
DO be aware that even a small hearing problem can hamper a person's ability to understand what you say.
DON'T assume that a hearing aid corrects hearing loss.
DO get the Deaf person's attention before you begin to speak, and DON'T start speaking without it. It is acceptable to tap a person lightly on the shoulder or arm or to wave a hand, small piece of paper or cloth gently in the person's direction to attract his or her attention.
DO face the Deaf or hard of hearing person and maintain eye contact throughout the conversation. DON'T talk directly to the interpreter, but always to the Deaf person.
DO stand close to the Deaf or hard of hearing person. DON'T let any object obstruct the person's view of you.
DON'T, for example, talk while you write on a chalkboard.
DO make sure the Deaf person can clearly see your mouth and face. DON'T eat, smoke, chew gum or hold your hand in front of your mouth while you talk.
DO stand in a well-lighted place. DON'T stand with your back to a light source such as a window. This throws your face into shadow and makes it difficult to see clearly.
DO try to converse in a quiet place. DON'T assume that background noise makes no difference.
DO speak and enunciate clearly, but DON'T exaggerate your lip movements.
DO use your voice, but DON'T shout. Many Deaf people can get some information through sound, but shouting distorts both the sound of words and lip movements.
DO use facial expressions and body language to clarify your message. DON'T be embarrassed to be expressive.
DO rephrase sentences that Deaf people don't understand. DON'T just repeat the same words over and over in the same sequence.
DO use pencil and paper or visual aids as necessary. DON'T be embarrassed about writing things down.