I am a huge fan of family centered care when it comes to audiology consultations with clients. As a hearing aid/cochlear implant user and as an audiometrist, I know from personal experience how much difference it makes to have a hearing support network. When meeting with a client who is purchasing hearing aids for the first time, it is essential to set realistic goals and expectations not only with them but with also the family members with whom they will be interacting the most.
I have found many clients can have a much harder hearing aid journey due to lack of support, understanding and cooperation from family. Hearing aids are just one tool that can help to overcome the difficulties of hearing loss; empathy, understanding, realistic expectations and appropriate communication techniques from family are the vital factors that determine overall success or failure.
Phonak Audiology blog recently posted an interview with Louise Hickson (Professor of Audiology, University of Queensland, Australia) on how family centered care can help the health and well being of clients.
Talking Hearing Loss 
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