How to Teach the Elderly to Use Hearing Equipment
Teaching the elderly to use hearing equipment should be done with respect and dignity. The person may or may not have any physical or mental problems that would interfere with learning. The instructor should use the best teaching method that fits the person, circumstances and learning needs. There should be several methods of teaching to ensure understanding. Basic use, care and expected results and problems should be discussed. A follow up teaching time is ideal.
- Assess your student before teaching. Ascertain whether there are any physical or mental problems that could be a deterrent to learning. Otherwise, teaching someone who is elderly is no different than teaching anyone else. Use respect and do not hold any preconceived notions of someone who is older.
- Make sure that the person being taught is able to hear you. Ideally you would use two hearing aids. It would be hard for anyone to learn when they cannot hear well.
- Determine a learning style that will fit the person and the circumstances. If the person does have any physical limitations, make sure the person is able to use the device. There are different features with hearing aids and adjustments may need to be made.
- Use several teaching methods for the best result. Explain the need for the equipment. Answer any questions, and demonstrate how the unit operates. Explain the need to get used to the differences in sound.
- Make sure that the person understands the instructions. It is advisable to also leave written instructions in easy to understand language. A simple diagram is also useful.
- Teach care, operation and cleaning instructions. Make sure the person has the proper supplies to care for the hearing aid.
- Ensure that the person understands the instructions by showing a return demonstration.
- Give contact information in case of any questions or problems. This should include telephone numbers. Ideally a time should be set up to check on the person’s progress. This will give the person time to adjust while also giving the teacher time to review and add any instructions.