If you or the person you are speaking with has a hearing loss, the following tips may enhance communication:

• Gain the person's attention before speaking
• Sit or stand within three to six feet to maximize audibility
• Remain at eye level to foster visual cues
• Raise your voice but do not shout because loud speech may sound distorted
• Speak slower but distinctly
• Use short, simple sentences
• Use facial expressions and gestures to give clues to the meaning of your message
• Rephrase your words if the person does not appear to understand or responds inappropriately
• Avoid speaking directly into the person's ear because it can distort your message and hide all visual clues