Understanding speech – Due to difficulties in understanding speech, someone with hearing problems usually prefers to face the person they are talking to. Watching the speaker’s lips and facial expressions helps them understand what is being said.
Phone calls – Relying on watching a speaker’s face can make telephone conversations extremely difficult. They can be extremely frustrating for both parties, which may mean they are eventually avoided altogether.
Avoiding noisy environments – Individuals with hearing loss may choose to avoid noisy environments, including social gatherings. High levels of background noise can make it even more difficult to pick out what a single person is saying, so even a conversation around a busy dinner table can feel very isolating.