< Program

Technology Update Session

Session 1B
The Social Consequences of Hearing Loss:  Are Hearing Aids Enough?
Brian J. Taylor, AuD, WS Audiology - Signia

Research suggests that many persons with hearing loss lack effective coping skills and tend to avoid social interactions, often deepening their isolation and loneliness. This course explores the relationship between hearing loss and social connectedness, including how properly fitted hearing aids and other audiological interventions might promote better social engagement through improved communication in multi-talker, noisy situations, reduced listening-related fatigue, restored music enjoyment, increased confidence and positive social impact. Additionally, the course examines how Signia applies the findings of this research in the design of their IX hearing aid platform, and how it relates to selecting and fitting hearing aids in the clinic.

Brian Taylor is senior director of audiology for Signia. He is also the editor of Audiology Practices, a quarterly journal of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, editor-at-large for Hearing Health and Technology Matters and adjunct instructor at the University of Wisconsin. Brian has nearly 30+ years of experience as both a clinician, business manager and university instructor.