Summary Hearing

HEARING
What is the relevance of hearing and hearing impairment in South Africa and OT?
 Hearing impaired persons have their own culture and language
 Treat with dignity
 Be aware of deaf culture
 S.A has own sign language
 Language gives identity
What are hearing aids?
 Electronic devices used at one’s ears
 Takes time to get used to sounds
 Difficult to understand speech in a noisy environment
 In some cases, lip reading will be required

1. What are the different parts of hearing aids?
o Earpiece, custom made, fits into the ear
o Hearing aid:
 Microphone
 Amplifier
 Volume control
 On / off switch
 Battery compartment

2. How do you maintain hearing aids?
o When cleaning/working with the hearing aid, use it near soft surfaces
o Keep away from water or heat
o Keep earpiece clean
o Replace earpiece when necessary
o Remove it when you are sleeping
o Replace batteries when needed

3. How does someone adapt to using hearing aids?
o Wear it in quite environments
o Listen different sounds in the environment
o Listen to conversation with one person
o Listen to the TV or radio
o At church or meetings sit in front rows
o Use it when shopping
o Try to talk on the telephone

4. How do you use hearing aids?
o Don’t be oversensitive
o Don’t isolate yourself
o Make sure you can see persons when they are talking to you
o Concentrate on one person talking
o Ask people not to shout → can speak a little bit louder, but not shout
o Light on the speakers face if possible

5. What are some of the challenges of using hearing aids?
o Whistling sound
o No reception