Did you know that 1 in every 4 people have a hearing loss? September is National Deaf Awareness Month. The purpose of this month is to increase public awareness of hearing loss, provide information on the services that are available, and to celebrate all the things that people with hearing loss can do.

The Walk4Hearing in Buffalo took place today in culmination of Deaf Awareness Month. The Walk4Hearing supports The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) and agencies in Buffalo by providing information, education, support and advocacy. Families had a chance to meet and connect with other families with hearing loss, learn from each other and participate in the fun activities that were provided. Since 2006, the HLAA Walk4Hearing has raised more than $13 million and has become the largest walk for hearing health. This year, the Walk4Hearing in Buffalo raised over $30,000! Walks are held all over the country! Check out walk4hearing.com to find a walk near you!

Some strategies that can be used to help students with hearing loss listen in the most optimal setting include:

Getting their attention before speaking
Being in a well-lit, quiet environment
Assuring that your mouth is visible for speech reading
Speaking clearly and naturally
Checking for understanding
Repetition of what was said if necessary