The old skill of lip reading is being given a new lease of life by one St George volunteer group.
Better Hearing Australia is a not-for-profit organisation offering support for hearing loss by offering lip reading classes and technical advice.
Locally, a class is run by Sunny Stuart each Friday morning from 10.30am to 12 noon, during school terms, at the Penshurst RSL Club.
"Hearing loss affects around one-in-six people," Sunny said. "This can be caused from a multitude of reasons and can affect quality of life and undermine self-confidence.
"Hearing loss is insidious. It's very draining as your brain works to keep up.
"Our classes are aimed to be supportive. It's not just about learning to lip read.
"There is a great sense of camaraderie and support as class members share their experiences and practice hearing management strategies.
"It gives people much more confidence. It gave one person a new lease of life.
"One or our members travels from East Hills to attend."
There is a class fee of $25 per term (concession) and membership of Better Hearing is $30 per annum.
Sunny can be contacted opn 9153 7404 or 0438 508 734.
Further information can be obtained at the Better Hearing Australia website: www.betterhearingsyney.org.au.
