Hearing, early detection & intervention refers to the attempt to recognize infants with permanent hearing loss as soon as possible. It begins with monitoring every newborn for hearing loss, preferably before one month. Infants who do not pass the testing receive diagnostic evaluations before three months and are registered in early intervention services, preferably by six months of age, if they have permanent hearing loss.
Hearing, early detection & intervention allow kids with hearing loss to enhance their language skills, which will allow them to communicate actively and freely learn. Hearing loss can have a negative impact on language development if it is not diagnosed or treated. Delays in detection and intervention can also have a negative impact.
The Significance of Hearing, Early Detection & Intervention
Because hearing loss is invisible, it has historically received insufficient attention. If hearing loss is not identified and “rehabilitative” efforts are not initiated as soon as possible after birth, a child’s language, cognitive, and emotional development will suffer.
Hearing loss that starts early in life, if not treated, can cause issues with social interactions, which will play a role in language difficulties in the majority of their forms: morphological, phonological, syntactical, semantical, and pragmatical.
When Should a Baby Be Tested for Hearing Loss?
It is best to have your baby tested before he or she turns 1 month. Hearing tests can be completed quickly while your baby sleeps or is quiet. Because younger babies spend so much time sleeping, screen hearing in these babies is the easiest.
How Is Hearing, Early Detection & Intervention Done?
There are two tests available to screen newborns for hearing loss. A health practitioner who is educated to screen hearing employs a small, delicate ear probe to start a game of quiet sounds in your baby’s ears during both tests. A computer analyzes how your baby’s ears react to sound.
- Automated Otoacoustic Emission
- Automated Auditory Brainstem Response
There are numerous intervention options available for children with hearing loss and their families. Among these alternatives are
- Services for Family Support
- Services in technology and audiology
- Options for medical and surgical treatment
These various options enable families and professionals to create customized programs that best suit the strengths and needs of their children.
