Navigating childhood hearing loss: the experiences of parents, grandparents and siblings

• Published in: Disability and rehabilitation 2024-09, p.1-12
• Main Authors: Loh, Denise Siying, Packer, Rebecca L, Scarinci, Nerina A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0963-8288; 1464-5165; 1464-5165
• DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2403723

This study aimed to explore the impact of childhood hearing loss on the family unit and their resulting intervention needs. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used, with in-depth interviews analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four family units of children with hearing loss participated in the study, including parents (  = 5), grandparents (  = 7), and siblings (  = 5). Five themes were developed from interview data: (1) the daily grind; (2) we're all in this together; (3) family dynamics; (4) the early intervention experience and (5) personal growth and adaptations. Family members were impacted in multi-faceted ways and identified informational and emotional intervention needs, with an integrative theme highlighting the emotional toll of childhood hearing loss on families. Early intervention services have a crucial role in addressing third-party disability through a multi-disciplinary service delivery model that addresses the needs of all family members, beyond the child with hearing loss.