Face coverings are important to slow the spread of COVID-19. Recent research is showing how masks impact communication and specifically hearing.
Generally, surgical/medical masks (like the kind that can be bought at pharmacies now) and cloth masks decrease sound transmission the least; not surprisingly, N95 and face shields affect sound transmission more. The sounds most affected by any face covering are high pitched like "s" "th" "sh" and "f"; unfortunately, these are also the sounds most affected for most people with hearing impairment. More studies may provide more information soon.
Most of us use visual cues like watching facial expression and body language as well as lip movements for communication; face coverings decrease this and can increase frustration. Clear face shields are probably most helpful for those with more severe hearing loss who rely consistently on watching lip movements to help decipher meanings.
While decreased hearing and access to visual cues can be very frustrating, try to show patience with others during this time. Speak slowly and towards the listener. Increase your volume slightly (speaking too loud will distort sounds even more).
If you have hearing aids, it may be a good idea to have a "mask" program with increased sound settings to counteract the typical changes to speech while listening to others using masks. Contact us if you need hearing help!
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