What is one thing that may get in the way of an individual being understood?

An individual’s hearing loss can significantly hinder their ability to communicate effectively. When someone has difficulty hearing, it may limit their comprehension of spoken words and reduce their ability to respond appropriately in conversations. This can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and feelings of isolation for the individual, making it more challenging for them to express their thoughts and feelings.

While watching television might distract from communication, or socializing could create noise that complicates understanding, the direct impact of hearing loss poses a more fundamental barrier to effective communication. Similarly, unmet needs can affect a person's ability to focus on communication, but the inability to hear doesn’t offer the same means for engagement that other situations might provide. Therefore, hearing loss is the most critical factor among the options listed as it directly affects the communication process itself.