I am a sign language interpreter so I am usually in situations where residual hearing is almost non existent. So tips that I can bring to this situation are:
1: paper and pencil can take you a very long way. Don’t be afraid to write somthing down.
2: email. I mean we all have email, iphones, instant messaging, texting, just think about how much you communicate in a day without using your voice.
3: “move, I can’t hear” . If they can’t see you they can’t “hear” you. Wait for eye contact before saying anything and continue eye contact while communicating.
4: most imporant ask. Hearing is different for everyone. Ask them what way they prefer to communicate. You might be surprised with a new interesting way to communicate.
And hey, sign language works well when both people understand it, and if not, hire an interpreter. ;-)