Communication tactics: Developing common habits

Communication tactics can be used to supplement the benefit of hearing aids. By focussing attention and with practice, hearing aid users can fill in missing gaps in conversations.

We hear with our ears and listen with our brain.

If someone with hearing loss finds it difficult to hear conversation, it can be easier for them to avoid challenging situations rather than joining in. They may develop common habits, for instance:

1. Not being involved in conversation
2. Dominating the conversation so they don't have to listen
or
3. Pretending they can hear by smiling and nodding