Let’s push back against the idea of a “loss” or “impairment” when it comes to hearing.
More Like a Boost
Are There Benefits to Hearing Loss?
Once I realized that hearing loss isn’t anything to be ashamed of, little by little, I started to speak up for myself. The more I did, the more confident I felt. This confidence has reached all areas of my life.
Hear Well for the Holidays
Statistically speaking, half of grandparents and great-grandparents have significant hearing loss. So do about one in 10 of the aunts, uncles, or adult friends ages 55 to 64. Plus, we know that among adults exposed to loud noise—at work or in everyday life—about one in five has a hard time hearing speech. This can be a real hindrance to enjoying the holidays when all we want to do is connect with one another and share life’s joys.
Sharing Stories, Solutions, and Support
Create a Communication-Friendly Home
Creating a communication-friendly home does not cost any more money than a home that was not designed to be deaf-friendly.
What People With Hearing Loss Want You to Know
I write this to help people I encounter—whether family, friends, or passing acquaintances—to better understand my daily challenges with hearing loss and hearing loss in general.
How My Hearing Loss Inspired My Tech Career
Being born with bilateral profound hearing loss to two Deaf parents and having one hard of hearing sister meant a life of constant misunderstandings and questions.
Memories and Music: My Life as a Real-Life ‘CODA’
I cannot tell you how many times in my 32 years people have asked me, “What is it like to have parents who are deaf?” My answer has always been the same, regardless of who is asking or how old I am, “What is it like to have hearing parents?”
Family and Friends Don't Understand Your Hearing Challenges?
If, like me, you have a hearing loss, you know what your hearing challenges are. But what about your friends and family? Do they have challenges communicating with you? I bet the answer is yes. Why wouldn’t they? Hearing loss is a communication disorder that affects all the people in our lives.
How I Cope When They Can't See That I (Sometimes) Can't Hear
I said, “I have a hearing problem. I couldn’t catch what you said. Please can you look this way and repeat that?” It’s amazing how this combination inspires an appropriate and thoughtful response. I almost always find people are pleased to accommodate the differently abled, once you’ve given them the information they need.