Do you have a loved one who is hard of hearing or deaf? Are these conditions one and the same?
If not, what are the differences between hard of hearing and deaf?
Is a hearing aid to be helpful for the person who is hard of hearing or deaf?
In these days when lots of studies have been done, people have become more and more knowledgeable. Numerous terms have emerged; therefore, you should be very careful when using one. Failing to do so may lead to possible harm-causing mistakes.
Differences Between Hard of Hearing and Deaf
If, for example, your child suffers from a hearing problem, it is important for you to know what his or her exact condition is. Being able to identify the real condition of a patient gives way to proper treatments. It will also help you and your family members do the right thing to help your child cope with his or her condition.
There are two ways to view and understand the difference between hard of hearing and deaf: terminology and culture.
Term wise, hard of hearing means the hearing loss sufferers might still have enough residual hearing. Therefore, they can use hearing aids to provide assistance in processing speech. On the other hand, deaf refers to the problem of having one or both ears not responding to sound. There is little to no functional hearing, for the hearing loss is so severe.
Culture wise, the difference between the two conditions is about how sufferers identify themselves. Specifically, children with normal hearing parents identify themselves with the hearing world; hence, they may call themselves hard of hearing. On the other hand, those with deaf parents identify themselves with the deaf world and consider themselves deaf. As you know, culture encompasses shared language, experiences, and philosophies.
How would you like to view your child’s condition? Whatever your answer is, keep in mind that focusing on your goals for your kid is far more important than thinking so much about labels. There is so much to think like how to raise him or her, how to make your communications good and smooth, and a lot more.
Levels of Hearing Loss
Basically, there are four common levels of hearing loss: mild, moderate, severe, and profound. Each differs according to the “most quiet sounds” they can hear and their way of communication (lip-reading or using hearing aids). If your child has hearing loss, make sure to know exactly what his or her condition is. Just like what you have learned earlier, doing so will enable you to communicate better with your kid and help him or her cope with his or her condition.
Summary/Conclusion
Handling a loved one with hearing loss is definitely hard; but with enough knowledge and patience, you can surely do it the right way. You are living in the modern world where numerous claims exist; therefore, you should also be careful when choosing which thoughts to entertain and believe.
If you think your child suffers from a hearing problem and may need a hearing aid, make sure that he/she get a hearing aid prescription. For more details of our hearing test & assessment, and hearing aid services, please contact HK Hearing & Speech Centre.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aid Prescription