Hearing Aids for the Deaf - Can a profoundly deaf person hear with hearing aids?

Hearing Aids for the Deaf

 Can a profoundly deaf person hear with hearing aids?

Profoundly deaf aids - Discovering how a deaf person can hear with a hearing aid

Digital hearing aids are made of small computers and microphones that are predominantly designed to amplify and increase awareness of sounds in your listening environment.  But what if you have severe hearing loss or are profoundly deaf?

One of the main questions surrounding this is usually "Can hearing aids allow a deaf person to hear?" 

There are various technologies and hearing devices for the deaf.  For example, cochlear implants, visual alert systems, FM systems, loop systems, accessible telephones and videophones.  Plus, you'd be surprised to know that digital hearing aids can really help deaf people's understanding of the world around them. 

Hearing aids for the profoundly deaf - Environmental awareness

Digital hearing aids successfully increase the volume of the sounds you hear. There is a large percentage of people who are deaf that still retain some level of hearing and therefore, hearing aids can be effective. Increasing awareness of both speech and sound in their own unique environment.

However, how the brain uses this sound varies on what hearing aid and power they are using.  Some people who wear powerful 'deaf aids' do so to take advantage of amplified speech sounds.  When combined with lip-reading and sign language - they gain higher environmental awareness.

Hearing aids for the deaf in one ear

People who have one ear that is deaf are commonly referred to as those who have 'single-sided deafness'.   This means you have one ear that is deaf and one ear with ‘normal’ hearing. This also applies to those who have one deaf ear and one who has hearing loss which can be improved by wearing a digital hearing aid.

How do hearing aids help deaf people?

Real-life question:  "In instances of irreversible hearing loss due to factors like loud noise exposure or aging, how do hearing aids aid individuals considered legally deaf and struggling to comprehend everyday conversations?"

Our response:  "You're correct that hearing aids are ineffective when there's no residual hearing, akin to a blind person wearing spectacles. While many hearing losses are permanent, solutions exist for those with limited hearing.

Strategies include lip-reading courses, sign language, specialized home accessories, and even assistance from hearing dogs. We offer resources for those considering hearing aids and facilitates initial hearing tests.

If no hearing is detected, our hearing aid audiologists connect individuals with local support organisations for further assistance".

Hearing Devices for the Deaf

Understanding the difference between hearing loss and profound deafness

Levels of hearing loss

When you have hearing loss you probably hear some sounds, but not all available sounds.  Hearing loss is divided into several categories or levels of hearing loss.  These are:

• Mild
• Moderate
• Severe
• Profound

When you are profoundly deaf it means you have the most profound hearing loss, which reduces your soundscape dramatically - even loud sounds within a short distance can be hard to distinguish.

Benefits of hearing aids for a deaf person

Every hearing aid is different and can benefit different levels of hearing loss, therefore not all hearing aid devices can cater to those who are profoundly deaf.  The most popular hearing aids for the deaf are ones that can personalise the levels of sound according to various listening environments.  

It is important to remember that those who are profoundly deaf might not be ideal candidates for hearing aids, as some people might get more support from a cochlear implant.  However, many people who are deaf prefer to wear hearing aids and hard-of-hearing devices for the deaf to personalise their listening experience more or for that extra boost - depending on their surroundings.

Combining ENT and a hearing care professional or audiologist

In some cases, the profoundly deaf community often benefits from a combination of an ENT specialist and a local audiologist to ensure optimum hearing healthcare.  Because they don't slot into established processes of care, like those with mild to moderate hearing loss, adding gain is not enough.

Those who are deaf are highly reliant on technology combined with sign language - their communication challenges are often too great for just a hearing aid alone.  A comprehensive treatment program that incorporates audiology management options like counselling, sign language, hearing assistant devices or hearing aid accessories and more is historically successful.

Cochlear implants are another hearing solution for the profoundly deaf

Cochlear implants are devices that are surgically implanted in the inner ear (cochlea) to help people who have severe hearing loss or are deaf to hear. They are designed for individuals who do not benefit from hearing aids or other assistive listening devices.

The implant consists of two main parts: an external processor and an internal device that is surgically implanted in the ear. The external processor is worn behind the ear and is connected to a microphone that picks up sound from the environment.

The processor converts the sound into digital signals and sends them to the internal device, which is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted in the cochlea. The internal device consists of an array of electrodes that stimulate the auditory nerve and enable the person to hear.

Cochlear implants can help people with severe hearing loss or deafness to hear and understand speech and to participate in conversations, listen to music, and hear other sounds in their environment.

They are not a replacement for natural hearing and do not restore normal hearing. However, they can significantly improve their ability to hear and understand speech and participate in daily activities.

Cochlear implants are generally safe and effective. However, like any surgical procedure, they do carry some risks, such as infection and bleeding. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare provider before deciding whether a cochlear implant is right for you. 

Hearing aids for deaf people - In conclusion

Despite limitations in addressing complete deafness, these devices significantly enhance the quality of life for those with residual hearing. Leveraging advanced technology, modern hearing aids amplify sound and facilitate clearer communication, fostering greater social engagement and emotional well-being.

Integrated features can also cater to diverse needs, from adaptive settings for different environments to wireless connectivity, ensuring seamless interaction with modern technology. Emphasising accessibility and inclusivity, the continued innovation in hearing aid technology offers hope and improved communication for the deaf community, fostering a more connected and greater access to sound.

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