Hearing Loss and Co-Occurring Developmental Disability: Recommendations for Improved Clinical Practice
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Date
2015
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Publisher
Ohio State University. Department of Speech and Hearing Science
Abstract
It is well-known that children with developmental disabilities are at greater risk for hearing loss. Although proper audiologic care is imperative for all children with hearing loss, those diagnosed with multiple disabilities often face unique challenges due to varying degrees of cognitive and physical impairment. For some children with critical health concerns, diagnosing and treating hearing loss may not always be a primary goal for families. Pediatric audiologists must be equipped to support these families by identifying, diagnosing, and providing intervention options for children with developmental disabilities. However, traditional audiologic protocols are not always appropriate for patients with unique needs. The field of special education has a wealth of knowledge and proficiency in working with children with developmental delays. Pediatric audiologists should be flexible in incorporating innovative techniques for diagnosing and treating children with co-occurring hearing loss and developmental disability. Communication barriers are common in children with developmental delays and common in children with hearing loss, further complicating oral communication development when hearing loss and developmental disability occur together. Interdisciplinary teams consisting of a range of pediatric specialists can support families in their endeavors towards a better quality of life for their children with multiple disabilities. Providing high-quality early intervention services can address individual needs across disciplines through offering appropriate comprehensive evaluations, as well as evidence-based interventions and therapies specific to each child’s needs. Although more research on this topic is desperately needed, pediatric audiologists working collaboratively with family-centered interdisciplinary teams can certainly facilitate successful hearing and communication outcomes for children with multiple disabilities.