Living well with hearing loss

Easier conversations

Tell people how they can help. For example, ask them to:

• face you when they speak, in good light
• speak clearly and at a normal pace, without shouting
• get your attention before they start talking
• rephrase, rather than repeat, if you did not catch something
• turn off background noise, like the TV

In cafés or restaurants, choose a quiet corner and sit with your back to the wall.

Useful technology

• captions and subtitles on TV, video calls and phones
• live transcription apps that turn speech into text on your phone
• Relay UK, a free service that lets you use text to make and take phone calls
• emergencySMS, which lets you text 999 once you have registered
• flashing or vibrating alerts for doorbells, phones and smoke alarms (your local fire service may fit these for free)

Protect the hearing you have

• turn down the volume on headphones, and take breaks
• wear ear protection in noisy places
• keep your hearing aids clean and have them checked

Relationships and wellbeing

Hearing loss can be tiring and isolating. It is common to feel frustrated, left out or low. Talk to the people close to you about how it feels. Local hearing loss groups and RNID's free information line can put you in touch with others and offer support.

British Sign Language

Some people who are deaf use British Sign Language (BSL), a full language of its own. You have the right to request a BSL interpreter for NHS appointments.