In the early years of a child’s development, hearing loss is often ignored. Children are the most affected, regardless of whether they are ignored by their parents or not recognized by them.
According to the Better Hearing Institute (BHI), a total of 1.4 million children are affected by hearing loss. That’s about 1.7 percent. Only 12 per cent of people use hearing devices. The BHI claims that as much as 15% of this could be due to early exposure. These numbers are based on objective studies published by the Journal of the American Medical Association. This means that many parents do not know their child has a hearing loss.
Sometimes pediatricians mistakenly believe that the child’s untreatable hearing loss cannot be treated. Even though audiologists and doctors may recommend a hearing device, parents might be reluctant and try to minimize the effect of the child’s loss. If a child’s hearing loss has been recognized by the education system, front-row seating is often the only option. This is insufficient for many children. Research from the National Hearing Screening Survey shows that 50% of parents avoid detailed testing after their infant fails an initial hearing screening. The most common parental concerns stem from the stigma that is placed on children and how others perceive them if they use hearing aids, or financial concerns.
The BHI strongly recommends that parents recognize the importance of early detection and treatment for hearing loss, and the resulting benefits.
It is important that children with hearing loss be treated early. Uncorrected hearing loss can affect speech and language development, academic proficiency, social skills and emotional well-being, as well as relationships with family members, cognitive development and self-esteem. Early diagnosis and treatment of hearing impairment would help the child grow and learn with others and become a productive member of society.
Visit this site for more information about hearing loss and its treatment. You can also learn how to recognize signs in children’s ears and prevent hearing loss. www.betterhearing.org.
