Let Me Explain

We are this strange thing. We're not really hearing, and we may be deaf, but instead of using sign language, we depend on what little residual hearing we have. We have to explain that what we need is to enhance our access to audio and visual cues, and we often do that with technology in addition to our hearing aids or cochlear implants.

I can’t tell you how many times I have conversations that start like this:

At an event, where there’s a speaker giving a talk:

Me: Hi, I have hearing loss. I use technology to help me hear better. Would you mind using my remote microphone when you’re speaking to help me hear your presentation.

Speaker: I don’t allow my talks to be recorded.

Me: Let me explain…

At the hospital, when I’m having a test done:

Me: Hi, I have hearing loss. I use technology to help me hear better. I’ll need to use some assistive listening technology so I can follow what’s happening during the test.

Receptionist: I have no idea what you’re talking about.

Me: Let me explain…

At a restaurant, when ordering food:

Me: Hi, I have hearing loss. I use technology to help me hear better. I’m using an app on my phone so I can understand your description of the specials you have for dinner tonight.

Waiter: Oh, you don’t need to use that. I have a very loud voice, and people have no trouble hearing me.

Me: Let me explain…