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

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the impact of childhood hearing loss on the family unit and their resulting intervention needs. Materials & Methods: 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 (n = 5), grandparents (n = 7), and siblings (n = 5). Results: 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. Conclusions: 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.