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Research indicates that one in six Americans has some form of hearing loss. Many people with hearing loss experience a drop in self-esteem and confidence because of their impaired ability to communicate with other people. Having hearing loss can also limit one’s ability to learn to speak a new language.

Hearing loss refers to reduced hearing, which can be caused by a variety of factors. It can either be congenital or acquired later on in life. It can range from mild hearing loss to profound hearing loss.

Hearing loss can affect a person in three main ways: emotional problems caused by a drop in self-esteem and confidence. ‘Conductive’ hearing loss is caused by obstructions or malfunctions in the outer or middle ear.

It can be caused by: impacted ear wax

‘Sensorineural’ hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. It can be caused by: certain chemicals and medications, known as ototoxic medications. Other disorders of the ear include: – benign tumours on the acoustic nerve.

The following tips might be helpful next time you talk with a hearing impaired person: Get the person’s attention.

Face the person and stand close to them

Have the light on your face and do not cover your mouth.

Speak more slowly than usual

Raise your voice if you have to, but try not to shout. Speak expressively and use face, hand and body movements.

Be ready to use a pen and paper

Tell people about your hearing loss.

Ask people to speak clearly

Encourage your communication partners to face you, speak up or speak more slowly. Advise people to gain your attention first and face you when talking with you.

Ask questions about what you missed

Suggest rephrasing the information

About hearing loss - how it affects people Hearing loss can affect personal and work life fewer educational and job opportunities due to impaired communication social withdrawal due to reduced access to services and difficulties communicating with others There are two main types of hearing loss outer or middle ear infections and malfunctions a damaged ear drum ageing exposure to loud noise, such as machinery or loud music diseases such as meningitis Other disorders of the ear tinnitus – noises or ringing in the ears or head Meniere’s disease – symptoms may include vertigo (dizziness), tinnitus, hearing loss and nausea acoustic neuroma Tips on speaking to a person with hearing loss Communication tips for someone with hearing loss Where to get help Better Hearing United States .

Key Points

  • Hearing loss refers to reduced hearing, which can be caused by a variety of factors
  • Hearing loss can affect a person in three main ways: emotional problems caused by a drop in self-esteem and confidence
  • ‘Conductive’ hearing loss is caused by obstructions or malfunctions in the outer or middle ear
  • It can be caused by: impacted ear wax
  • ‘Sensorineural’ hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear