Assistive Communication Technologies
Modern technology offers brilliant solutions for people with hearing difficulties. Hearing aids work by amplifying sounds for people with damaged hair cells in their ears - a condition called sensorineural hearing loss. The UK has around 12 million adults with hearing loss, which shows just how common and important this issue is.
Hearing loss gets classified into four levels: mild 21−40dB, moderate 41−70dB, severe 71−95dB and profound 95dB+. For the most severe cases, cochlear implants can work miracles. These electronic devices bypass damaged parts of the ear entirely, sending electrical signals directly to the auditory nerve through surgically implanted components.
Makaton offers a completely different approach, combining picture symbols, hand gestures similar to BSL, and speech. It's particularly helpful for people with learning disabilities, autism, Down's syndrome, or developmental delays. You'll often spot Makaton being used in mainstream schools too, as it helps all children develop stronger communication skills.
Remember: These aren't just medical devices - they're tools that give people back their independence and connection to the world around them.