{"id":1427,"date":"2022-03-04T02:31:32","date_gmt":"2022-03-04T02:31:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nalent.com\/?p=1427"},"modified":"2022-03-04T04:58:01","modified_gmt":"2022-03-04T04:58:01","slug":"how-to-be-an-ally-to-people-with-hearing-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nalent.com\/how-to-be-an-ally-to-people-with-hearing-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"How to be an Ally to People with Hearing Loss"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Like many conditions, hearing loss exists on a spectrum<\/a>. Some have severe or complete hearing loss that doesn\u2019t respond to treatment. Others have much milder to moderate cases that may often go unnoticed by those around them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of severity, it\u2019s important to support people with hearing loss. Let\u2019s examine a few of the best ways to do that.<\/p>\n\n\n

Don\u2019t Make Assumptions About Their Hearing Loss <\/h2>\n\n\n
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People with hearing loss are often stigmatized. Don\u2019t assume that someone who has severe hearing loss is less capable at doing their jobs or functioning in the world. They may need different accommodations than those without hearing loss, but this has nothing to do with their ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If someone informs you that they have mild or moderate hearing loss, don\u2019t minimize their experience, or assume they don\u2019t need support. The severity of a person’s condition does not necessarily correspond with their individual struggle.<\/p>\n\n\n

Don\u2019t Cast Doubt on Hearing Ability<\/h2>\n\n\n

Many people with hearing loss have what\u2019s known as an invisible disability. This means their condition is not immediately apparent to other people. You may be surprised to find out a friend or coworker is hard of hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, it\u2019s important to not let that surprise come across as casting doubt. Saying things like \u201cI had no idea\u201d or \u201cYou seem to hear just fine,\u201d may unintentionally seem like you are minimizing their condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A large number of people with disabilities worry others won\u2019t believe them when they disclose their condition. Data indicates that nearly 60% of Americans with disabilities<\/a> feel that others question their disability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This type of doubt can cause people to hesitate to disclose their condition. This adds extra stress to their lives and can keep them from accessing the full range of accommodations that may be available to them.<\/p>\n\n\n

Do Ask How You Can Be Supportive<\/h2>\n\n\n

If someone confides in you that they have hearing loss, react supportively. Thank them for sharing. Ask if there are things you can do to make things easier for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also helpful to consider their needs when planning events. Some things you can do include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n