Hearing aids or hearing implants for Down syndrome
Hearing impairments due to frequent ear canal or middle ear problems with trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, exacerbate the communication problems that often already exist. Hearing aids or implants, which transmit sound directly into the inner ear, offer a remedy.
People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. This genetic peculiarity can have a threefold effect on the development of communication skills: Hearing ability, processing and learning speed, as well as motor speech production can be impaired by the genetic abnormality. However, the hearing impairments can be counteracted with suitable hearing aids or implants.
Remedy for hearing impairments
While conventional hearing aids are often helpful for inner ear problems, hearing systems that conduct sound to the functioning inner ear via bone conduction are particularly suitable for conductive hearing loss - as is the case with ear canal and middle ear problems. They are available in two types: As a surgery-free hearing aid, such as the adhesive ADHEAR, or as a partial implant such as the BONEBRIDGE, which consists of an implant and an externally worn audio processor.
Modern designs of suitable hearing aids and hearing implants
Older designs of bone conduction devices are held in place by means of contact pressure and are therefore often perceived as uncomfortable. Modern adhesive systems, on the other hand, are comfortable to wear. The self-adhesive pads can remain in place for several days, even if the devices are removed at night or when showering. This ensures a constant sound sensation.
Bone conduction implants transmit sound directly to the bone structure of the head, bypassing the filtering effect of the skin. With the BONEBRIDGE, the skin over the implant is closed and the audio processor is held directly over the implant by magnetic force.
Early intervention important for Down syndrome and hearing loss
Even though we can learn new words well into old age, the basis for language is acquired in the first few years of life. This development can hardly be made up for later.
Children with congenital hearing impairments have clear disadvantages here; prolonged or repeated hearing impairments as a result of any inflammation can also have a detrimental effect on this process. For this reason, hearing aids should be offered as early as possible: to every child - but especially if memory and learning skills are impaired.
Practicing hearing and communication with a hearing aid or hearing implant
Additional hearing training helps to make up for delays in the development of language and communication, as well as the development of cognitive and psychosocial skills that are influenced by hearing. Information and training materials help parents of affected children to close this gap in the best possible way.
Would you like to find out more? Here you will find all the information you need about the reliable hearing systems:
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