Hearing loss can create distance between people, especially kūpuna. The challenge is not just about missing sounds, but the frustration that grows when communication feels out of reach. I understand this personally. I experienced significant hearing loss from childhood into adulthood. Over time, I learned something important: Connection does not depend on hearing alone. So I learned to focus my attention and adjust my environment, which allowed me to stay connected in deeper ways.
Some tips on how to better communicate with a hearing impaired person:
■ Vision plays a powerful role. Choose a well-lit space and face the person as you speak. Facialexpressions, gestures and lip movements provide meaning that words alone cannot carry. A smile, a quick wink or a friendly greeting can express love and warmth when hearing gaps exist.
■ Touch strengthens presence. A gentle tap on the arm can bring attention before speaking. Holding a hand builds comfort and trust.
■ Speech matters. Speak clearly and at a slightly slower pace. As hearing decreases, the brain works harder to fill in missing parts of a sentence. When words come too quickly, the mind struggles to keep up. Slowing down gives the listener time to process and stay engaged.
■ One-on-one time is important. Group conversations can feel overwhelming. Multiple voices and shifting topics make it difficult to follow along. Do not assume others heard what you heard. Summarize key points and speak directly to the person with hearing limitations.
■ Connect at a regular time each day. Simple habits make a difference. I experienced this with my hearing-impaired grandmother. When I called her in the morning, she felt loved and less alone.
■ Learn basic sign language. Using the American Sign Language creates another layer of connection. At Hōkūlani Children’s Theatre of Molokai, I teach children and kūpuna simple songs in sign language. This helps them connect voice, facial expression and gesture — three essential parts of communication.
At its heart, effective communication builds relationships. I feel grateful for my hearing loss because it taught me to listen with my heart, not just my ears.
Vicki Boswell is the Founder and President of Hōkūlani Children’s Theatre of Moloka‘i and a dedicated advocate for life skill development among kūpuna. Drawing from her lifelong experience with hearing loss, she teaches practical, multisensory communication strategies that strengthen connection and reduce isolation. Vicki holds a BA in educational psychology and an MSW with a child and family emphasis. She loves working with children and kūpuna, helping them build confidence, express themselves and stay meaningfully connected within their communities. If you have a story to share, email the editor: debra@generations808.com.
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