Hearing Accessibility

Hearing Accessible

What is hearing accessibility? It is best described as creating an atmosphere for hard of hearing people, in which all activities and presentations are seen, heard and understood The ramp for hard of hearing is not built out of wood or steel, but rather the ramp is a better way of communication. In order to build that ramp of communication, four things must take place…

First is an understanding what the hard of hearing need in every situation to improve communication. It is an educational process of learning from the hard of hearing, rather than telling them what we think would be best for them. Turning up the volume or yelling louder is not a solution.

Second, understand that every individual has a different need. One solution does not fit all hard of hearing people. The “ramp” must be individualized to fit each person’s hearing needs.

Third, consider the social-environmental factors that impact communication. What are the group dynamics? How many people are in the room? What are the acoustics in the room? How loud is the music? Is the place conducive for good communication?

Fourth, hard of hearing people must be willing to band together and discuss their own communication needs. Make suggestions on what would benefit the hard of hearing group the most. Be willing to experiment and try various technical helps.

The whole concept of this ministry and the academy is to research constantly and discover better ways to communicate with the hearing impaired. The hard of hearing community or sector in the church should appoint a leader to spearhead a local support group that meets regularly.

Your ideas and input are valuable and requested in order to improve communication among the hard of hearing. Go to our blog and make a comment.

LET MY PEOPLE HEAR!
P.O. BOX 3021
Chattanooga, TN 37404

E-mail: LetMyPeopleHear@yahoo.com