#OTalk 31st May 2016 – Hearing Loss Awareness for Occupational Therapists – How can we communicate better?
Date: 31/05/2016 Host: @mooartdotcom, @EarChoice & @H1H2H0
11 million people in the UK have some form of hearing loss meaning
Occupational Therapists need to consider hearing communication needs
for 1 in 6 people they work with. This affects professionals working
in all settings as hearing loss is affecting increasingly younger
adults due to rising environmental noise and earphone use.
Research has suggested even mild hearing loss doubles the risk of
developing dementia, depression and anxiety. Hearing loss has also
been linked with heart disease, diabetes and falls. Yet an estimated 9
million people are currently in a period of transition, lasting on
average ten years, between first experiencing hearing loss and seeking
professional help.
The impact of acquired hearing loss during this transition period can
lead to social withdrawal, activity avoidance and reduced
participation. This can affect employment, engagement in meaningful
activities and access to health and social care services.
As Occupational Therapists we have a professional responsibility to
ensure our service users’ are properly informed and communication is
client-centred and meets individual needs. However there is currently
a limited evidence base for how best to meet the needs of those with
hearing loss and awareness of hearing loss amongst health
professionals remains low.
We feel Occupational Therapists have the skill set to address the
impact of hearing loss on daily life. An OTalk will be held on 31st
May to start the discussion on what Occupational Therapy can offer
people with hearing loss across all settings. We are hosting this OTalk
to raise awareness of hearing loss in the community but also to hear
your feedback, experiences and suggestions relating to this important
issue.
Susan Windeatt & Helen Duncan
@mooartdotcom / @EarChoice / @H1H2H0
Post Chat Updates:
Online Transcript from Healthcare Hashtag Project
PDF of Transcript: #OTalk 31 May 2016
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