Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are now a slick, consumer technology – forget the big boxes and beige prostheses from the past!
Today’s digital hearing solutions mean iPhones can be paired with digital hearing devices, while hearing aids can work as assistive listening devices (ALDs).
Most deaf children have residual hearing to amplify with digital hearing aids to access sound in their environment. When a child wears hearing-aids, it is easier to get their attention and to communicate.
Video: Audrey Gets her First Hearing-Aids
Your audiologist will advise on the most suitable hearing-aid models and accessories for a particular hearing level. Here is an explanation of audiology services.
In Ireland, deaf children are entitled to hearing assistance from the state. Details are in the services map on this site.
Hearing-Aids Or A Cochlear Implant?
If a hearing aid will not help someone with profound deafness, a cochlear implant may be an option. This however depends on other factors like residual hearing, age of implantation, family background and previous access to sound. Hearing aids work by making sounds louder. They are available in various shapes and sizes and may be “tuned” to suit individual hearing patterns.
Video: Different Styles of Hearing-Aids
Aids can be worn behind the ear, on the body, or in the ear. All models have a microphone to detect sounds for amplification into the ear. Wearers with active lifestyles and who like music can get hearing-aid accessories – experiment to find what works best.
Video: Getting new hearing aids
Video: Sports challenges
Video: Issues with children wearing hearing-aids
Digital Hearing Rocks!
Parents concerned about their child’s hearing can consult a public health nurse, or visit a health centre. It’s vital not to delay investigations. Families need time to adjust to the hearing technology but these hearing-aid tips will help.
Deafness is different in the digital hearing age while children who hear more words, speak more words and do better.
Childrens’ vocabulary is boosted by hearing aids and parents, with families having a vital role in language development.
Hearing-aids facilitate a child’s learning and education, while giving children access to interactions at summer camp and in sports games.
Video: Boy listens to music through his hearing-aid
Video: Saskatoon girl discusses her BAHA (bone-anchored hearing aid) and smartphone remote control
Remember
- Replacement or loaner aids may be available from a clinic if someone’s devices break or are unusable.
