Hear, Hear, continued

Sometimes I wish I could wear a sign that reminds people that I have a disability. It's easy for them to forget. Hearing aids these days are practically invisible so they don't provide a clue. When asked to speak up or repeat a comment, most people will comply, but only for a short time. Then they forget and speed up, or carry on conversations with several people at once. About that time, I'm toast! So what can you do to help a person who has a hearing loss? Try to select quiet places for conversation. (I realize this is often totally impossible.) Several people can be involved, but please speak one at a time. Speak a bit more slowly than normal. It takes us longer to process the spoken word. Speak distinctly but don't raise your voice. That really doesn't help. Trust me, hearing loss is frustrating for everyone, listener and speaker alike. Sometimes it's just easier to tune out, but I really try not to do this. My greatest fear is becoming isolated, so please be patient and make an effort to include me in the conversation.