Tips for Making Holiday Gatherings Accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing People

This can be a difficult time for many people if they are hard of hearing or Deaf. With all the noise, not being able to hear conversations, and having to read lips, gatherings can be uncomfortable and isolating. It's not enough to just turn up your hearing aids or put in your cochlear implant.
 
As the host, start your inclusion before the family gathering, ask your Deaf and hard of hearing loved ones for their suggestions for making the event more accessible and inclusive. (You might be surprised by what you learn)

​Here are some tips from Easy Signing's Deaf and hard-of-hearing friends that will help you create a space that is inclusive to deaf and hard of hearing guests this holiday season. 

1. Ask your Deaf or hard of hearing loved one their preference of communication.
2. Have good room lighting
3. Be sure to face the person and give eye-to-eye contact
4. Reduce background noises and sounds
5. Do not mumble, yell, or speak loudly 
6. Do not overemphasize your facial expressions or lip movements
7. Do not stand in front of a light, sunshine, or bright background
8. Upload a free caption app to use, like AVA which can help to break down communication barriers between Deaf & hearing people.
9. Learn some basic ASL signs and phrases to help prepare you to bridge your two-way communication between you and your Deaf loved one. ​

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