Support Resources for Cochlear Implant Patients
Cochlear implants can greatly enhance an individual’s quality of life. To ensure a smooth transition and offer support for those adjusting to life with a cochlear implant, a wide range of resources are available:
UW Health Resources for Cochlear Implant Users: At UW Health, cochlear implant patients can engage with fellow users and make the most of their devices through various opportunities such as educational seminars, informational talks, pre-surgery meetings with experienced users, and social events like picnics.
Additional Resources for Cochlear Implant Users: Numerous high-quality websites cater to individuals with cochlear implants, providing valuable information and support.
Cochlear Implant Manufacturers’ Web Sites: To help you make an informed decision, websites of cochlear implant manufacturers like Cochlear Corporation, Advanced Bionics, and Med El Corporation offer comprehensive information about their devices.
Cochlear Implant Support Sites for Adults:
- Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf promotes independence through listening and talking, catering to parents of children with hearing loss, adults with hearing loss, and professionals working with individuals with hearing loss.
- Hear-It is a website designed to raise public awareness of hearing loss, offering resources and information on the subject.
- Cochlear Implant Association, Inc. is an organization that supports cochlear implant recipients, their families, professionals, and individuals interested in cochlear implants.
- Association for Late Deafened Adults provides information about membership, national meetings, and relevant links for deafened adults.
- Hearing Loss Association of America (formerly known as SHHH) offers assistance and resources to help individuals with hearing loss and their families adjust to living with this condition.
Support Sites for Children with Cochlear Implants and Their Families:
- Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf, focusing on promoting independence through listening and talking, supports parents of children with hearing loss, adults with hearing loss, and professionals working with individuals with hearing loss.
- Auditory-Verbal International advocates for the choice of listening and speaking for children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. They provide education, advocacy, and family support.
- Cochlear Corporation’s Hope Program provides diverse resources for children, families, and educators to learn more about cochlear implants and maximize their benefits.
- Cochlear Implant Awareness Foundation (CIAF) is a non-profit organization that offers information, resources, and support to prospective cochlear implant recipients and their families.
- Listen-Up, created by a parent of a child with hearing loss, offers extensive information on hearing loss, including resources, organizations, technology, and enjoyable activities for children.
- Oral Deaf Schools website provides a comprehensive listing of oral deaf education programs for children, along with a section for professionals interested in higher education or seeking teaching positions.
These resources collectively form a supportive network that empowers individuals with cochlear implants and their families, enabling them to navigate their journey with enhanced communication abilities and improved quality of life.
