What is proper etiquette when speaking to a deaf or hard of hearing or deafened person?

Answer 1

Look them directly in the eye as you speak to them since many hearing impaired people can lip read. Don't try to speak in an exaggerated manner (as if speaking to a child or mentally impaired person), or you will offend them, since they are hearing impaired and not mentally impaired. They will let you know if they are able to understand what you are saying, and they may use hand gestures to communicate with you if they haven't learned to vocalize. Never assume or ask a deaf person if they can lip read. That is considered offensive by many. But if they can't hear you,, they can't hear you and the best way to facilitate communication is by writing to each other on a piece of paper. On another note,, the ASL alphabet is quite easy to learn and after some practice, you'll find you can spell words quite quickly. If you know the alphabet in ASL, the you are able to communicate with deaf people. It would also not be hard at all to learn some basic signs. The link at the bottom of the page can help you.