Individuals with hearing impairment/deafness during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A rapid review on communication challenges and strategies

Abstract

Aims and objectives This study aimed (a) to identify the communication issues and problems faced by individuals with hearing impairment (HI)/deafness during the COVID‐19 pandemic and (b) to describe strategies to overcome the issues/problems and/or prevent their negative impact. Background Individuals with mild or severe HI face everyday communication problems, which have been worsened during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, no studies have summarised the available evidence to better understand the communication challenges faced by them and strategies allowing better interactions. The long duration of the outbreak—more than 2 years, with policies that have just been lifted in some countries—and the possible return of restrictions in the next Winter suggest the need to summarise evidence in the field. Design and methods A rapid review is reported here in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. Medline, CINAHL and Scopus databases were searched, including (a) primary or secondary studies published from January 2020 to 12 January 2022, (b) involving individuals with HI/deafness, (c) during the COVID‐19 pandemic and (d) written in English. Data were extracted and summarised by using a content analysis approach. Patient or public contribution No Patient or Public Contribution. Results Fourteen studies were included as follows: three non‐systematic reviews, seven cross‐sectional, three quasi‐ experimental and one qualitative study, performed mainly in the US and the UK. Face mask covering use; physical and social distancing; and information, education, rehabilitation, and healthcare accessibility have emerged as the main challenges triggering consequences such as social isolation, loneliness, poor knowledge regarding the prevention and mental health issues. Strategies mitigating these challenges are as follows: (a) adopting transparent face masks, (b) using basic skills while interacting (e.g. maintaining eye contact), (c) improving the availability of sign language interpreters, (d) allowing the presence of family members and (e) teaching basics of sign language to healthcare professionals. Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice Individuals with HI/deafness live with several challenges, suggesting that their vulnerability has increased tremendously during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The effectiveness of strategies to overcome these difficulties should be scrutinised by conducting more research. Moreover, there should be increased awareness among all citizens by equipping them with simple strategies to communicate effectively with individuals with HI, an approach that may increase inclusiveness and prevent further negative consequences and burden.

Best practices for communication while wearing facemasks: A scoping review

“…A systematic review focused solely on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the hearing-impaired population suggested that use of facemasks when communicating with this population leaves them especially vulnerable (Mansutti et al, 2023). Similar to this review, the authors identified that many of the recommend strategies for…”

“…This review included research, literature, and editorials focused on both the hearing‐impaired and non‐hearing‐impaired population. A systematic review focused solely on the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the hearing‐impaired population suggested that use of facemasks when communicating with this population leaves them especially vulnerable (Mansutti et al., 2023). Similar to this review, the authors identified that many of the recommend strategies for effective communication are not supported by robust research evidence and urge continued research on mask modification and effective communication skills, and call for increased use of sign‐language interpreters in the healthcare setting.…”

Enablers and barriers for hearing parents with deaf children: Experiences of parents and workers in Wales, UK

“…Families find little information or support available to navigate pathways for deaf children through health and education services, yet families are key to ensuring children who are deaf receive language and communication support. Communication challenges experienced by children who are deaf, and consequently their families, were difficult before the global coronavirus disease (Covid) pandemic, and much worse during, as not only were communications and interpersonal relationships made more difficult but also the lack of access to resources (information, education and health care), has increased vulnerability in child and adult deaf communities tremendously 6 . Systems surrounding deaf children and family members are crucial in terms of children's health and social development, and subsequent achievements.…”