HealthInfo Canterbury
Tips for reading, writing & using the phone
Tips for using the phone
Make phone calls when you are relaxed, and take your time. Get rid of any background noise.
Be prepared with:
- pen and paper
- the other person's name and phone number
- questions or points you want to make
- all the information you need.
Think about what the other person might say. How will you answer them?
When you are on the phone:
- Tell the person you have difficulty speaking
- Ask them to bear with you
- Ask them to speak slowly
- If you get stuck, think of another word.
Tips for reading
It can be tricky to process and retain written information. These tips may make it easier for you.
- Get rid of any distractions so you can focus on what you are reading – for example, turn off the radio and turn away from the window.
- Large print might be easier to read.
- Plan when you are going to read important documents. Do it at the time of day when you have the most energy.
- Use a blank piece of paper to cover all the text under the line you are reading. This helps you keep your place.
- Using your finger or a ruler can also help you keep your place.
Make links between what you are reading and what you already know.- Underline or highlight key words, headings and sentences as you read them. This helps you process and retrieve them better.
- Write brief notes in the margin, or on your blank piece of paper.
- If you can't write, record a summary on a voice recorder.
- After a break, for example at the end of a chapter or at the end of a section, read your notes or listen to your voice recorder before you start reading again.
- Other people may be able to read aloud to you.
- You might enjoy "talking books", recorded newspapers, podcasts or software that reads the text on screen out loud.
Tips for writing
- Make drafts, review and check them for errors.
- Use computer spell checkers.
Written by community speech-language therapists, Canterbury DHB. Adapted by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed November 2020.
Sources
Images courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net. Woman on phone by Stuart Miles, man reading by Ambro
Review key: HISCD-79694
