ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION
COMMUNICATION
ALTERNATIVE
TECHNIQUES
TECHNIQUES
Successful communication requires the efforts of all people involved in a conversation. Even
when the person with hearing loss utilizes hearing aids and active listening strategies, it is
crucial that others involved in the communication process consistently use good
communication strategies.
Written Words
Writing is an example of non-verbal communication that can
allow us to express complex thoughts, requests, and ideas. The
written word can also be helpful when communicating between
two people. As an example, you may write down two options on a
piece of paper and the health provider will point to which option
they’d prefer. That’s how the written word and gestures can be
used together to form a rich non-verbal discussion
The visual component of communication is substantially
increased when you write down what you wish to say to your
healthcare provider. Writing down what you want to say also has
the benefit of allowing you to express your thoughts about the
problem specifically. Putting down your worries can also make it
easier for the medical professional to understand how you feel
and what concerns you have in order to accurately assess your
situation and give you the proper care you need
In addition, writing saves time since not everything spoken needs
repeating. You can also write your concerns while your health
provider is not around.
Finally, if you write something down, it can be referred to later, if
necessary, which reduces the potential for misunderstandings
with your health provider.
By using simple thumbs up when you want to say "yes"
or "agree" and thumbs down when you want to say "No"
or "you don't understand or you don't agree" when
communicating to your health care provider will also
help you to provide your response for better
understanding.
Gestures
Outside of sign language, there are other examples of non-verbal communication that involve
movement of the hands. You’ve probably communicated non-verbally in this way in the last month
without even noticing it!
Waving to a friend, pointing to a restaurant menu item, and indicating how many apples you want
by holding up three fingers are all examples of gestural non-verbal communication. Other types
of gestures that you may recognise are the ‘ok’ hand gesture, the ‘thumbs up’ or ‘thumbs down’,
or putting your finger to your mouth to tell someone to be quiet.
Gestures are a useful communication tool to have at your disposal, and they’re a great example
of non-verbal communication that you can look out for in your favourite TV shows and movies!
By: Macasasa, John Patrick