Hearing

A hearing disability is an impairment of a person’s ability to hear sounds; and in some instances, the inability to discriminate speech.

Hearing disabilities may range from a profound to mild hearing loss.

THINGS TO KNOW
When ministering to a person with a hearing disability, know that the person

  • may or may not lip read.
  • comprehends approximately 40 percent of what is said on the lips.
  • may or may not use sign language.
  • read the printed word.
  • may or may not use his/her voice.
  • may or may not wear a hearing aid.
  • may use a telecommunication text device (TDD/TTY).

THINGS TO DO
When ministering to a person with a hearing disability,

  • learn to communicate by using the manual alphabet and sign language.
  • gain their attention before starting a conversation.
  • provide a sign language interpreter.
  • provide seating near the speaker.
  • use paper and pen when other methods of communication are unavailable.
  • seek to understand cultural diversity.
  • reduce background noises.
  • use good lighting.
  • provide announcements in printed form.
  • provide easy reading materials.
  • use short, concise sentences.
  • gain their attention in a culturally appropriate manner.

THINGS NOT TO DO
When ministering to a person with a hearing disability,

  • do not cover your mouth when you talk.
  • do not shout.
  • avoid exaggerated lip movements.
  • do not walk in front of the interpreter.
  • do not turn your face from the receiver of your message.

THINGS NOT TO SAY
The following terms are negative or inappropriate:

  • deaf-mute
  • deaf and dumb
  • handicapped
  • deafie