Living with a male with noise-induced hearing loss: Experiences from the perspective of spouses

Abstract

The aim of this inductive study was to describe, from the perspective of the spouses, their experiences of living close to a male with severe noise-induced hearing loss. An additional aim was to generate the first step of a theory of how these spouses managed their daily life. The study sample consisted of 10 strategically selected females who differed in age, educational status, number of children and years of marital relationship. Verbatim transcribed thematized interviews were analysed according to a method influenced by the constant comparative method for grounded theory. Two main variables, or core concepts, were identified: the husband's reluctance to acknowledge hearing difficulties and the impact of hearing loss on the intimate relationship. Combinations of these main variables were related to four qualitatively different strategies used by the spouses: co-acting, minimizing, mediating and distancing strategies. It is suggested that the type of strategy chosen by the spouse influences the outcome of the audiological rehabilitation.

Third-Party Disability in Spouses of Older People With Hearing Impairment

“…Involvement of the spouse-and, therefore, family-centeredness-has long been promoted in the area of audiologic rehabilitation (Armero, 2001;Gagné, 1998;Hallberg, 1999;Hallberg & Barrenäs, 1993;Hétu et al, 1988;Miller, 1983). Group intervention programs are one way of involving spouses in rehabilitation.…”

“…Others also have focused on the effects of hearing impairment on significant others (Gagné, 1998;Gagné, Hétu, Getty, & McDuff, 1995;Hallberg & Barrenäs, 1993;Hétu, Jones, & Getty, 1993). In the mid-1990s, Gagné and colleagues highlighted the potential for individuals with normal hearing (e.g., spouses) to experience situations of "handicap" due to their interactions with people who have a hearing impairment (Gagné, 1998;Gagné et al, 1995).…”

Untersuchung von Faktoren bei der Erstversorgung mit Hörgeräten

“…Hallberg und Barrenas [6] beschrieben verschiedene Strategien von Partnern von Hörgestörten, die auf 2 grundlegenden Mustern (Akzeptieren bzw. Ignorieren der Hörstörung) basieren.…”

Effect of Excessive Noise Exposure on Granite Factory Workers

“…3,4,5 ONIHL causes problems not only for the individuals concerned, but also for their families and co-workers. 6,7 ONIHL is defined as partial or complete hearing loss in one or both ears as the result of one's employment. World Health Organization (WHO) describes that exposure to excessive noise is the major avoidable cause of permanent hearing impairment.…”