Staff knowledge regarding hearing loss and communication among nursing home residents

Author(s): Erber, N. P.

Journal/Book: Aust J Ageing. 1997; 16: Level 2, 3 Bowen Crescent, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia. Council Ageing. 40-43.

Abstract: Hearing loss is prevalent in nursing homes, and communication by residents is reported to be restricted both in quality and quantity. Programs to manage hearing loss in nursing homes are uncommon, and residents are infrequently referred for assessment of communication difficulties. To understand this situation, it is necessary to consider how staff perceive residents' communication needs and difficulties. A questionnaire was completed by 140 staff in five nursing homes. They answered questions relating to the prevalence and effects of hearing loss, residents' opportunities for communication, and the communication environment. Findings suggest that staff underestimate the prevalence of hearing loss, that they recognise some of the communicative obstacles encountered by residents, but that they are overly optimistic about residents' opportunities for communication and also the ability of staff to improve that communication.

Note: Article Burnip LG, Flinders Univ S Australia, Sch Special Educ, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): IMPAIRMENT

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