Hearing Better
Last reviewed 29 September 2026.
At a glance
- Five habits help: get attention, face them, rephrase, cut noise and pause.
- Do not shout. Speak clearly and face the person.
- Offer to come along to a hearing test.
Five habits for talking together
First, get their attention. Say their name and wait for eye contact. Second, face them. Keep your face in the light and stay close. Third, rephrase. If they missed a word, use different words instead of repeating the same ones louder. Fourth, cut the noise. Turn off the TV or move to a quiet spot. Fifth, pause. Give them time to follow. Print or share the card below.
Do not shout
Shouting can distort speech and make it harder to understand. Speak clearly at a normal pace and a slightly lower pitch. Do not cover your mouth.
Start the hearing test conversation
Many people wait years before they get help. Choose a calm moment. Talk about what you have noticed, and how it affects you both, instead of telling them what they must do. Offer to come to the appointment. Read our guide on encouraging a loved one to take a hearing test.
Go further
Our posts on communicating with someone who has hearing loss and ways to accommodate your loved one have more ideas. The Hearing Loss Association of America also offers material for families. See our Resources page.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered
My parent says they hear fine. What should I do?
Do not argue. Give examples of what you have seen, such as missed words or a loud TV, and suggest a simple hearing test. A test is quick and gives facts.
Can I come to the appointment?
Yes. Family members are welcome, and many patients find it helps.
Should I speak louder?
Speak clearly, not louder. Face the person and cut background noise.