By Joanna Renault
Over the past decades, Assistive Technology (AT) for hearing deficits has evolved. Common examples of AT includes hearing aids and cochlear implants. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that partially restores hearing. This can be an option for people with more severe forms of hearing loss. My Rehab Team occupational therapist has helped a client with hearing loss to acquire cochlear implants. The occupational therapist worked closely with the client and his lecturers in implementing strategies to enable the client to participate in lectures at university.
AT for hearing deficits include notification devices for example flashing or vibrating alarm clocks, detectors placed outside your home to indicate someone is at the door or Sense Smart watches which act as a personal assistant by converting sounds to text. There are also assistive listening devices such as neck loops and volume amplificatory products that can help in amplifying the sounds that you want to hear, even where there is background noise.
Research has indicated that AT can help people with hearing impairments to participate in their day to day activities. AT are tools that can greatly assist you with your studies, your work place and your daily life. MyRehab Team’s Occupational Therapist and Speech Pathologist can help you identify and access the Assistive Technology that you need. They can also help you with developing strategies within your environment. Contact us on 1300 469734 or info@myrehabteam.com.au for more information.
References
- ARATA-Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association. (2021). Participation through technology. Retrieved from: ARATA – Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association
- McPherson, B. (2014). Hearing assistive technologies in developing countries: background, achievements and challenges. Disability & Rehabilitation, 5 (9). Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.3109/17483107.2014.90735
- Miller Polgar, J. (2001). Using technology to enable occupation. Occupational Therapy Now, 23-25. Retrieved from: Assistive technology and occupational therapy – ProQuest (usc.edu.au)
