face masks?

[e-in-me]

hi all.i just cannot have a conversation with others when they are wearing them,can you tell me if i have to wear them?

[Christine59]

Hi, I think all of us with hearing loss find it very difficult to hear others speak when they are wearing face masks. I work in a fast food restaurant in a customer service role. It is an absolute nightmare trying to understand what others are saying to you when they are wearing face coverings and there is background noise. I personally would say persevere with wearing one. The mask is there to offer protection against an awful virus. Don't be embarrased to ask people to repeat what they have just said. I have had to explain that I am completely deaf in one ear to complete strangers and that the face masks muffle their voices. They have been very understanding and dont mind repeating themselves. But yes, it is a nightmare having to struggle to hear others. There are masks with clear panels and also the plastic shields which allow you to lip read. You can remove masks in certain situations and others can remove theirs to help you understand what they are saying, but need to keep their distance. I'd print up a little card or make a little badge that says "I'm deaf, please speak louder", just so people know .