HARD OF HEARING SUPPORT

The term ‘Hard of Hearing’ is generally used to denote a person with a mild-to-moderate hearing loss. However, while this is usually the case, it is important to recognise that the term can also be used to indicate a person with a more profound hearing loss who does not identify with the Deaf Community. It is the right of every person to choose what they wish to be called.

Hard of Hearing Service

Acquired Hearing Loss

Acquired Hearing Loss (AHL) occurs when someone is born hearing but develops hearing loss at some stage of their life. Hard of Hearing people with AHL have to learn to adjust to life with less than full hearing. This can be a challenging process. For example, the person may ‘give up’ on participating in conversations because it is too frustrating and exhausting to keep up with what is being said. People with AHL may experience the following as a result of their hearing loss:

• Embarrassment or Anxiety
• Withdrawal
• Diminished Self-Esteem
• Social Isolation
• Grieving for loss
• Depression

Taking Control of Your Hearing Loss

If you are Hard of Hearing, there are many things you can do to improve the quality of your life, for example:

Education

Build your confidence by learning about your type of hearing loss. Knowledge is power and acquiring information about your hearing loss, entitlements and how to use and care for your hearing aid will make you feel more confident.

Technology

Familiarise yourself with the wide range of technology that is available for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people, for example specialised door bells, smoke alarms and telephones. These can make a huge difference to your life. Please contact the Cork Deaf Association for further details or to arrange a demonstration.

Communication Therapy

The Cork Deaf Association run one to one adjustment to hearing loss programmes. These programmes can be tailored to suit your own set of circumstances and cover such topics as:

• how to make the most of your hearing aid
• building confidence in communication situations
• advice for your family and friends on how to improve their communication with you

This is a FREE service. Just contact Hard of Hearing Coordinator, Catherine, for further information and to arrange an appointment on catherine@corkdeaf.ie

Peer Group Support/Counsellor Support

A problem shared is a problem halved may sound like a cliché but it is true. Talking to people who are experiencing similar issues can be extremely therapeutic. The Cork Deaf Association has a Hard of Hearing Support Group and new members are always welcome. Remember: it is important to continue to meet people and to socialise.

Inform People

‘I am hard of hearing so can you please face me when you are speaking to me’ should become a mantra to you. Be brave and tell people that you have a hearing loss and you will find that your confidence will grow as a result. Don’t apologise for your loss.

Be Patient With Yourself

Getting used to hearing loss takes time and people adjust to wearing hearing aids at different rates. Take things slowly and don’t expect to adapt to the loss overnight.