29/06/2026
This resonates with me...how about you?
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18yezqgUQ9/
Love my hearing aids but they are NOT hearing miracles.
The hearing people in our lives often expect hearing devices to fix the problem. No doubt hearing aids and CIs make a difference but there are gaps. (The average word discrimination for a CI is 70%. I know there are exceptions and if you are one of them, I'm am truly happy it's worked that great for you.)
One thing few people know --- our devices work best within six feet. Outside of that, their abilities start to decline. With a severe hearing loss or low vision added in, it might need to be two feet! Each person with hearing loss needs to figure out the distance that works best for them and communicate that need to the people in their lives.
Communication takes two. Those of us with hearing loss do what we can by getting EXPENSIVE hearing aids and cochlear implants. Now we need cooperation from our hearing partners to make communication less stressful for them and us. Use the Three Golden Rules:
-Get the HoH (Hard of Hearing) person's attention before talking.
-Face the HoH person the whole time.
-Be within six feet.
That's it! Three simple guidelines for anyone with hearing loss. Use them whether they wear hearing aids, a CI or no hearing devices. It reduces frustration on both ends.
Are you tired of repeating? We are tired of asking for repeats. Are you tired of us bluffing? Stop making a big deal about repeating, especially if you weren't following the 3 Golden Rules.
Think of these rules as healthy communication boundaries.
To the HoH community: Model the behavior you want to see in others. You too need to follow the rules. If anyone finds themself doing the wrong thing, just stop and do the next right thing.
To learn more about the why of the three Golden Rules, see the link in the comments. I'll also put in a printer friendly meme in the comments. Take a lipreading class with Hearing Loss LIVE! if you find yourself having a hard time with self-advocacy.
