Karen Downs and Regina Kiperman-Kiselgof National Technical Institute for the Deaf Center on Employment
Late Deafened Adults: Lose hearing after speech/language development Gradual or sudden hearing loss Identified self with hearing culture Dislikes repeatedly asking for clarification
Hearing loss in the U.S. Americans with hearing loss: estimated 55 million Have some degree of loss: one in six adults This population predicted to increase
Hearing Loss in Military Veterans Is number one disability Over 78,000 have hearing loss Over 94, 00 have tinnitus
Psychological Impact of Hearing Loss May be in denial Can feel isolated May experience stress or depression Hesitant to disclose hearing loss
Hearing Loss Causes Aging process Illness or medications Heredity Accident Loud noises
LOUDNESS Understanding Hearing Loss
CLARITY
Listening Activity
General Communication Strategies Maintain eye contact when speaking Speak slowly and clearly Use open-ended questions Use gestures and facial expression Choose environment conducive to communication
Group Communication Strategies Provide agenda for meetings Use visual aids Repeat, then rephrase when necessary Avoid speaking with back turned Record minutes or take notes
Job Accommodations and Technologies PDA Instant messaging Captioning
Voice Carry-over (VCO) WebCaptel Captioned Telephone
On-line relay callerTelephone user On-line Talk Type Operator
Notetaking
Visual and Listening Devices Visual Alerts Listening Phone Amplifier FM System
Thank you!