How Speech Therapy Helps Hearing Loss
The clinical perspective on how speech therapy bridges the gap between hearing sound and understanding language.
Speech therapy is not just about correcting lisps. For those with hearing loss, it is about learning to interpret sounds and communicate effectively in a hearing world. Hearing aids provide the volume, but the brain provides the understanding.
Auditory Training
One of the key components of speech therapy for hearing loss is auditory training. This involves teaching the brain to recognize and interpret different sounds. This is especially important for people getting used to new hearing aids or cochlear implants, where sound might initially seem robotic or overwhelming.
Communication Strategies
Therapists also teach practical communication strategies to help patients advocate for themselves:
- Positioning: Standing close to the speaker and ensuring the face is visible.
- Environment: Reducing background noise (turning off TV/Radio) before starting a conversation.
- Clarification: Asking specific questions ("Did you say 9 or 5?") rather than just saying "What?".
"Hearing is a physical process; listening is a mental one. Therapy bridges the gap."
Source Reference
Originally published by Alice Peck Day.