Hard of hearing is a term that refers to someone with mild-to-severe hearing loss. In these individuals, some hearing capability is still present. Deafness, on the other hand, refers to profound hearing loss. Deaf people have very little hearing or none at all.

What does being hard of hearing mean?

Deaf usually refers to a hearing loss so severe that there is very little or no functional hearing. Hard of hearing refers to a hearing loss where there may be enough residual hearing that an auditory device, such as a hearing aid or FM system, provides adequate assistance to process speech.

What do you call someone who is hard of hearing?

Overwhelmingly, deaf and hard of hearing people prefer to be called deaf or hard of hearing. Nearly all organizations of the deaf use the term deaf and hard of hearing, and the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) is no exception.

How do you treat someone who is hard of hearing?

18 Ways to Help a Loved One with Hearing LossFace the person directly when talking. Inform them if they miss something. Dont start talking from another room. Rephrase what you said if needed. Dont shout. Say the persons name before beginning a conversation. Speak naturally. Reduce the background noise.More items