It can be difficult to communicate with a deaf person if you don’t know sign language. However, there are ways that you can still effectively communicate with them. Here are four ways that you can try.
Ways to Communicate With a Deaf Person
Write it down
One way to communicate with a deaf person is to simply write down what you want to say. This can be done with a piece of paper and a pen, or even on your phone if you have the notes app open. The key here is to make sure that the other person can see what you’re writing, so don’t write too small.
Use an interpreter
If you know someone who is fluent in sign language, you can ask them to interpret for you. This way, you can have a conversation with the deaf person without any barriers. Just make sure that the interpreter is able to understand what you’re saying and vice versa.
Use technology
There are various apps and websites that can help you communicate with a deaf person. For example, there’s an app called Glide that lets you type out a message and then send it as a video. This can be helpful if the other person is better at reading lips than signing.
Learn some basics
If you really want to be able to communicate with a deaf person, you can learn some basics of sign language. This way, you can at least get your point across and have a somewhat conversation. There are plenty of resources online that can help you get started.
What Not to Do When Communicating With a Deaf Person
When communicating with a deaf person, it is important to remember that they may not be able to hear you. This means that you need to be aware of your body language and facial expressions, as they may be the only way that the deaf person can understand what you are saying.
Here are some things NOT to do when communicating with a deaf person:
Don’t speak too loudly or slowly
Deaf people can usually hear just fine, and speaking too loudly or slowly can be annoying and frustrating. Just speak normally and they will be able to lipread what you’re saying.
Don’t assume they can’t hear anything
Just because someone is deaf doesn’t mean they can’t hear anything at all. They may be able to hear some sounds, so don’t assume that they can’t. In that case, you can use a voice amplifier to make your voice louder and clearer.
Don’t block their view
When communicating with a deaf person, it is important that you don’t block their view of your face. This makes it difficult for them to see your lips and facial expressions, which makes it harder for them to understand what you’re saying.
Don’t forget to sign
If you know how to sign, then use it! It can be helpful for the deaf person to see what you’re saying, as well
Don’t shout or mumble
Shouting will not help the deaf person hear you any better, and mumbling will be difficult for them to understand.
Don’t use hand gestures instead of words
While hand gestures can be helpful when communicating with someone who is deaf, using them instead of words will only confuse the person.
Don’t give up if the deaf person doesn’t understand you the first time
It may take a few tries before the deaf person understands what you are saying. Be patient and keep trying!
Don’t assume that the deaf person knows sign language
Many deaf people do not know sign language, so don’t assume that they will be able to understand you if you use it.
Last Words
With these four ways, you’ll be able to communicate with a deaf person even if you don’t know sign language. Just remember to be patient and understanding, and you’ll be able to have a conversation in no time.