depression is five times more prevalent among people with hearing loss than in the general population!

Did you know that depression is five times more prevalent among people with hearing loss than in the general population? And did you know that depression among family members is 2 and a half times more prevalent? Terry quoted this from a study done  in the UK. This is why our research symposium on Sunday morning is so important. You will  hear a panel talking  about the latest research on the psychosocial effects of hearing loss – something we probably all experience but to have it validated by research is the first step in finding effective interventions.

 

Vic Krause, former state legislator for Michigan, gave a great overview of the MI HLA Day on Capitol Hill that they have put on for the past two years. 175 consumers came out both years to visit with their representatives, talk about issues of major concern – Hearing  Aid Tax Credit, hearing loss and dementia, and interpreter standards, among other things. For the first time in history the legislature was made completely accessible to hard of hearing and deaf people with CART, ALDs and sign language interpreters and a resolution was passed to recognize May as hearing loss awareness month.  This successful day motivated the state leaders to hold similar events in their own states and Vic was on hand to answer questions about the logistics of coordinating such a day.

Sorenson isn’t giving up anything yet this year about plans for new products and services for people with hearing loss.  There are things in the works – could be breakthroughs for people with hearing loss – but their product manager is not ready to divulge exactly what. They are on hand in the exhibit hall, so make sure to visit and see what they are up to. Perhaps you will be more successful at getting them to give you more information than I was!