
Hearing loss can affect anyone regardless of age or background. This condition occurs when the ear and its respective components are unable to function properly, leading to a diminished capacity to hear sounds and understand speech.
Impact on Speech & Language Development
The ability to hear is a critical foundation for speech and language development. The human brain learns to process sounds and associate them with meaning during the early years of life, which leads to verbal speech and language development. When a person has an early hearing impairment, these crucial developmental milestones can be compromised, because what is not clearly heard, cannot be associated with meaning. Therefore, the tool of speech and language, which we need to manipulate our caregivers into providing us with what we need, does not evolve properly.
For individuals with hearing loss, the impact can be far-reaching, affecting not only speech and language development but also academic performance, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Specifically, hearing loss can impact the auditory feedback loop, which includes the hearing, processing, and interpretation of sounds. When the auditory feedback loop is disrupted, individuals with hearing loss may have difficulty recognizing and processing spoken words, leading to delays in language acquisition and difficulty with speech production.
Impact on Cognitive Development & Memory
Apart from that, hearing loss can also affect cognitive development, memory, and attention span. Individuals with hearing loss often must work harder to understand what is being said. Excessive “Listening Effort” leads to mental fatigue and a reduction in our ability to associate meaning and store auditory memories as easily as others. So, when it comes to speech and language development, the impact of hearing loss can be significant and long-lasting.
Early Intervention is Key
The good news is that early intervention for hearing loss can prevent these negative impacts. Identifying a medically treatable hearing problem leads to early management and the normalization of hearing function. For most individuals with medically untreatable hearing loss, hearing aids can significantly improve the ability to hear and understand speech, resulting in an enhanced quality of life.
Audiologists provide an initial assessment, caring support and information about all of the treatment options to help individuals with hearing loss navigate the challenges associated with reduced sound perception. With the right support and guidance, individuals with hearing loss can enjoy improvements in communication, social and academic performance, and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, it is recommended to visit an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing test and appropriate intervention and support.
Contact any one of our NB Hearing Cape Town offices to book a hearing test if you or a loved one are finding it difficult to hear. We can help through diagnostic, intervention and support or referral where required.