The Experience of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common but often poorly recognised condition which can have multiple negative impacts. Based on a model of patient-centered audiological rehabilitation, this textbook explains why it is important to understand both patients' own experiences, and those of their communication partners, over time. It explores the physical, mental, emotional and social consequences of hearing loss from initial onset to rehabilitation, illuminated by first-hand patient accounts. Aiming to promote the inclusion of the patient and close relatives in the process of rehabilitation, it makes an important contribution to evidence-based practice in the field of audiology.

Vinaya Manchaiah is Jo Mayo Endowed Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Lamar University, USA. He is also the co-founder of the not-for-profit and non-governmental organization Audiology India. 　 Berth Danermark is Professor of Sociology in the School of Health and Medical Sciences at Örebro University, Sweden. He is the director of doctoral studies at the Swedish Institute for Disability Research.

Preface 1. Introduction 2. International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and Hearing Loss 3. Journey of person with hearing loss 4. Communication partners' journey through their partners hearing loss 5. Pre-awareness: Coping communication difficulties without realising hearing loss 6. Awareness: Understanding and becoming aware of hearing loss 7. Movement: Making Steps to Seek Information, Help and Intervention 8. Diagnostics: Hearing Assessment and Decision Making 9. Rehabilitation: Learning and Adapting to New Methods 10. Self-Evaluation: Reflecting on the Experiences and if the Rehabilitation has made a Difference to Life Condition 11. Resolution - Part 1: (Re)capturing the Conversation 12. Resolution - Part 2: Continuing to Adapt and Live with Hearing Loss 13. Examples of the Journey through Hearing Loss 14. Practice Implications of Patient Journey Model