Navigating childhood hearing loss: the experiences of parents, grandparents and siblings.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the impact of childhood hearing loss on the family unit and their resulting intervention needs. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used, with in-depth interviews analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four family units of children with hearing loss participated in the study, including parents (<i>n</i> = 5), grandparents (<i>n</i> = 7), and siblings (<i>n</i> = 5). Five themes were developed from interview data: (1) the daily grind; (2) we're all in this together; (3) family dynamics; (4) the early intervention experience and (5) personal growth and adaptations. Family members were impacted in multi-faceted ways and identified informational and emotional intervention needs, with an integrative theme highlighting the emotional toll of childhood hearing loss on families. Early intervention services have a crucial role in addressing third-party disability through a multi-disciplinary service delivery model that addresses the needs of all family members, beyond the child with hearing loss.