Lipreading classes involve learning about the shape of speech as we see it. All aspects of the circle below are covered while learning to be familiar with shapes that look alike and their small differences. This process narrows down the choices to two or three in each consonant group. Lipreading is much easier when we know the theory and the pitfalls of what is recognisable and what is not. Lipreading also covers aspects of assertiveness and communication training - how to manage a hearing loss as effectively as possible. My classes usually last about an hour, according to individual needs. 6-10 classes, at one per week, would be normal, depending on progress. Relatives are welcome and encouraged to attend. Classes are tailored to each individual. I try to make them interesting and fun.

Lipreading one to one classes are provided within the Hearing Therapy Service. Group classes are available at Better Hearing in both the metropolitan areas of Perth and in Bunbury and Albany. Lipreading is an ongoing process in that it requires practise. It is akin to learning a language. If we learn a language and then cease to use it, we lose much of the ability to speak and understand. Much vocabulary is lost. Lipreading requires frequent practise in order to perfect the skill.

Why learn to lipread? As may be seen from the diagram below, lipreading involves far more than just looking at someone's lips. Lipreading is a skill that helps to fill in the gaps that are missing in speech when your hearing is impaired. If you wear a very good hearing aid with speech processing ability and have only a mild hearing loss you may find that your hearing aid is sufficient to help you in every situation. However, even with a hearing aid, the majority of people complain of being unable to manage in background noise. If this is the case, learning to lipread will assist you in the more difficult situations. Every skill you learn will improve your chances of being able to join in socially and aid in the prevention of deafness being equated with isolation and social inadequacy. People who lose all their hearing usually find that they pick up lipreading eventually, but lipreading classes can accelerate the learning process. This is because there are many factors that come into play when you are lipreading that can be identified, learnt and practised.