Yes, this is so true. Healthcare workers at all levels do not understand the ramifications of hearing loss on their patients. It should start at the training level, but for whatever reason, it doesn't. Consequently, many don't have a clue how to help us. This is exacerbated by denial and refusal to talk about it by so many who have hearing loss.

Organizations like The Hearing Loss Association of America work hard to get information out on this topic, and strongly promote the rights of people with hearing loss under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

It's important for people to know that while HLAA is called 'The voice of people with hearing loss", it is a non profit with a very small dedicated staff. Much of what HLAA does is done by volunteers who live with hearing loss themselves who participate in chapters around the country.

HLAA depends on people like us to get involved in sharing information, educating those who need a better understanding of what hearing loss does to people, and also to advocate for changes that help make hearing loss a greater issue of concern. Unfortunately, far too many people who are affected by hearing loss; theirs or someone else's, don't step up to help.

HLAA is a 'membership' organization. However, it represents all people with hearing loss, regardless of affiliation. If HLAA had more members it could do much more. The organization is working to promote legislation for insurance and Medicare coverage for hearing technologies. HLAA is also planning a national convention in June that will share a ton of information with attendees to bring back home. http://www.hearingloss.org

Have you ever attended an HLAA event? Chapter meeting? Convention, etc.?