Learning Speechreading<\/h2>\n
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There are ways to practice improving speechreading skills and it\u2019s a useful tool to have. Learning speechreading takes practice. Sometimes, it may feel like focusing on each individual sound and then missing the point of what was being said.<\/p>\n
For those practicing learning speechreading, it\u2019s important to share that information with friends and family. There are ways they can offer support, like writing down the conversation topic and refraining from covering their mouths.<\/p>\n
Other important pieces of advice for speech reading include to:<\/p>\n
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- Rest and relax. Speechreading can be mentally tiring, as it requires clear focus. Take deep breaths and take frequent breaks.<\/li>\n
- Prepare the eyes. Speechreading will be easier if you do not attempt to do so in front of a distracting background like a television or a group of people. Wear sunglasses on sunny days to keep from straining to see.<\/li>\n
- Prepare to pay attention. If someone is entering a social situation in which they know they\u2019ll be spending a significant amount of energy on speechreading, they should be sure to rest well the night prior.<\/li>\n
- Stand within six feet of the speaker, if possible. This will allow you, the speech reader, to see the person\u2019s face more easily. It will also be beneficial to ensure they don\u2019t have bright backlighting, which might obscure their facial expressions.<\/li>\n
- It\u2019s also possible to take courses on speechreading. City College of San Francisco offers a course, and YouTube clips are also available for free.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Speechreading Roadblocks<\/h2>\n
There are aspects of speechreading that could hinder progress or interfere with the ability to follow conversations.<\/p>\n
Those roadblocks can include:<\/p>\n
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- Language barriers. Speechreading in one\u2019s secondary language can be difficult. Additionally, colloquial language can be harder to follow than a straightforward sentence.<\/li>\n
- Background noise can interfere with speechreading. Speechreading is not fully about visual cues and is often done successfully by using auditory cues and remaining hearing as well. Background noise can conflict and distract from auditory cues.<\/li>\n
- Covered lips. People often cover their mouths when speaking or even talk with food in their mouths. Anything that obscures the natural movement of the mouth during speech can make speechreading more difficult.<\/li>\n
- Facial hair. Beards and mustaches that cover the lips even slightly can make speechreading more difficult.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Overall, speechreading can be considered a helpful skill or tool for better communication. There are additional options to enhance one\u2019s hearing and communication ability, of which hearing aids<\/a> are the strongest. The combination of hearing aids and speechreading together can work to improve overall quality of life.<\/p>\n
To learn more about how hearing aids help keep people connected or to schedule a hearing test for yourself or a loved one, contact San Francisco Audiology<\/span> to schedule an appointment today.<\/p>\n