Aural Rehabilitation in Modern Practice Webinar-Aural Rehabilitation in Modern Practice Webinar Slides

Aural Rehabilitation in Modern Practice Webinar Slides

Pdf Summary

In the presentation "Aural Rehabilitation in Modern Practice: Steps for Success," David Frazier, a hearing instrument specialist, explores the concept and importance of aural rehabilitation (AR). AR focuses on alleviating the difficulties related to hearing loss and minimizing its consequences. Frazier emphasizes that AR can decrease hearing aid returns, increase patient satisfaction and usability of hearing aids, and improve acceptance of hearing loss.<br /><br />Frazier explains that a successful AR program begins with a thorough diagnostic hearing evaluation to determine the individual's type and level of hearing loss. He highlights the importance of explaining the audiogram results to establish realistic expectations for the patient. Frazier also emphasizes the stages of grief that individuals often go through when dealing with hearing loss, including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.<br /><br />The amplification process involves providing options for hearing aids or other listening devices based on the patient's lifestyle, budget, and vanity considerations. Frazier recommends using demonstrations to highlight the benefits of wearing hearing aids. He also emphasizes the role of counseling in addressing individual concerns, coping strategies, and psychosocial aspects of hearing loss.<br /><br />Frazier stresses the need for a patient-centered approach in aural rehabilitation and encourages the involvement of a transdisciplinary team, including speech language pathologists, physicians, teachers, and audiologists. He suggests incorporating AR discussions into every appointment and providing ongoing support through follow-up appointments and communication tools such as journals, emails, and video chats.<br /><br />The presentation also discusses the use of assistive listening devices (ALDs) and strategies to enhance communication. Frazier recommends considering ALDs such as induction loops, hearing amplifiers, and captioned telephones. He also shares strategies for optimal communication, such as gaining the person's attention before speaking and avoiding loud background noise.<br /><br />Overall, Frazier emphasizes the significant benefits of utilizing aural rehabilitation programs, including decreased hearing aid returns, increased patient satisfaction, improved usability of hearing aids, and better acceptance of hearing loss. He encourages healthcare professionals to re-align modern practice for patient-centered care and offer comprehensive support to individuals with hearing loss.

Keywords

Aural Rehabilitation

Hearing loss

Hearing aid returns

Patient satisfaction

Usability of hearing aids

Acceptance of hearing loss

Diagnostic hearing evaluation

Stages of grief

Amplification process

Assistive listening devices