Quiz: Answers

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1. 1. Try to find :
      • a quiet atmosphere
        somewhere that has soft furnishings carpets etc to absorb some of the noise
        good lighting
      • no or soft background music.
      • table cloths to deaden the sound of cutlery etc.
      • tables that are quite separate from each other
      • a table that is in a corner so that if necessary the lipreader can sit with their back to the wall.
   2. Remember to:
      • speak clearly
      • not too loud or too softly
      • to face the lipreader
      • not to cover your mouth
      • not to move about too much
      • to give the context where possible
      • to check you lipreader is following what you are saying
      • to use facial expressions, gestures, natural rhythm and expression
2. 1. Make sure the environment is good for them
      • not too many guests (depends on the person but I would think no more than 8 and even this is sometimes difficult)
      • ask the person where it is best for them to sit DON'T have a seating plan unless you are sure the person can manage it.
      • Make sure they are included in the conversation especially at the beginning of the evening but check throughout they are included.
      • If possible have some people they know so that there is support for them
   2. a reasonably quiet room
      • well lit - candles but other lighting as well.
      • no background music
      • again check that they are seated in the best position for them
      • if it takes place in daylight check that they are not facing the windows as this makes lipreading difficult.
   3. seated next to people who will make it easy for them to join in the conversation.
      • try to ensure that they know what people are talking about.
      • Check that they are following and draw them into the conversation
      • When asking their opinion or a question try to give some information that will enable them to know what you are talking about in case they have been left behind.
      • generally be alert to be sure they are included.
      • again clear speech and all the other strategies to make it easier to lipread.
3. 1. a comfortable, quiet room with good lighting and absorbent furnishings if possible and away from noisy surroundings.
   2. give the context before the meeting if possible
      • and if necessary have a loop system available.
      • Use all the known strategies to make it easy for the lipreader to understand what you are saying
      • Check regularly that everything has been understood.
      • Provide a written summary of the ,meeting for reference
4. Going to any appointment is usually a frustrating and stressful time for a hard of hearing person. Be supportive but sensitive.
   1. give the person independence but be ready to assist.
      • You need to check that directions have been heard correctly
      • check that the person has heard their name called
      • be ready to clarify anything that the person has not heard correctly
      • make sure you are sure that dates and times of procedures or next appointments and any medication etc. have been clearly noted by you and the person you are helping.
      • check if necessary
   2. Try to ensure the doctor/consultant /nurse speaks to the person you are helping - not you!
5. Be aware that they may be deaf or hard of hearing. Take measures to ensure that they have heard/noticed that you need to get past them. Be polite and smile!
6. Again the person may be deaf or hard of hearing so use even more care when overtaking them.
7. It is tempting to give up and say something like: It doesn't matter!
   Never mind!
   1. Don't give up – it matters to the other person.
   2. Try to change what you are saying and put it a different way or even write it down.
      You could try sign language if they are signers or you could use finger spelling to clarify some of the words.
8. Shouting could hurt the person's ears.
   It doesn't help the person to hear – clarity is needed not volume!!
9. 1. If possible try to use a loop system and where you know that there will be Deaf people engage the help of lipspeakers, signers and a palantype system.
   2. when speaking use
      • clear speech;
      • a slightly louder voice but don't shout;
      • speak at a slightly slower rate than your normal speed but keep the natural
      • rhythm of your speech
      • make sure face is visible at all times
      • try not to move about the stage/platform etc. this can be distracting to
      • everybody and also can lead to your face being obscured
      • use your natural facial expressions, gestures and body language to
      • enhance what you are saying.
      • make sure the room is well lit
      • make sure the loop system is working if there is one
      • ask if people can hear you
10. See "Top Tips"