Obtaining National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding for individuals with permanent bilateral hearing loss is a vital step toward enhancing their quality of life and facilitating access to necessary support services. Here’s a guide for securing the NDIS funding for those facing permanent bilateral hearing loss.
Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
Permanent bilateral hearing loss is a medical condition in which an individual experiences a long-term hearing impairment in both ears. This type of hearing loss can result from various factors such as genetics, exposure to loud noises, certain medical conditions, aging, or a combination of these. Understanding the nature of permanent bilateral hearing loss involves considering its impact on auditory function, communication abilities, and overall daily living.
In cases of permanent bilateral hearing loss, damage may occur to the delicate structures within the inner ear, like the cells responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals. This damage can lead to a decreased ability to detect and process sound, affecting speech and environmental sounds.
Causes Of Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
Permanent bilateral hearing loss can result from various factors, and understanding its causes is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and management. Here are some common causes:
- Genetic factors
- Congenital factors
- Noise exposure
- Head Trauma
- Presbycusis
- Medications
- Infections
- Medical conditions
- Malformation of ear
- Tumours
Symptoms Of Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
The symptoms of permanent bilateral hearing loss vary depending on the degree and cause(s) of the impairment. Here are common symptoms associated with the condition:
- Frequently Asking for Repetition: An individual experiencing hearing loss may frequently ask others to repeat themselves, indicating a challenge in comprehending conversations.
- Struggling in Noisy Environments: Permanent bilateral hearing loss can make it challenging to discern speech in places with background noise, like restaurants.
- Slow Language Development: Children with permanent bilateral hearing loss may exhibit delays in speech and language development, impacting their communication skills.
- Tinnitus: Some individuals may experience a persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in their ears, known as tinnitus, which can accompany hearing loss.
- Difficulty Understanding Spoken Words: Individuals with permanent bilateral hearing loss often struggle to understand spoken words, especially in environments with background noise. This difficulty may lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and withdrawal from social situations.
It’s crucial to note that symptoms vary based on the specific characteristics of the hearing loss and its causes.
Eligibility Of Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
For individuals seeking NDIS funding for permanent bilateral hearing loss, the following factors may influence eligibility:
- Permanent Disability: To be eligible for NDIS support, the individual must have a permanent disability significantly affecting their ability to participate in daily activities and social interactions.
- Functional Impairment: The impact of hearing loss on the individual’s functional abilities is also considered. This includes employment, social interaction, and communication.
- Age: Patients must be between the ages of 9 to 65.
- Nationality: Patients must be Australian citizens, permanent residents or Protected Special Category Visa holders.
Services Available For Patients Under NDIS Funding For Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
The services available for individuals with permanent bilateral hearing loss under NDIS funding vary based on the specific needs and goals of the individual. Here are some available services;
- Speech Therapy: NDIS may fund speech therapy services to address communication challenges associated with permanent bilateral hearing loss.
- Assistive Technology: Funding will be provided for hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices to enhance the individual’s communication abilities and auditory experience.
- Transportation Assistance: If hearing loss affects an individual’s ability to use public transportation independently, NDIS will fund support for transportation, ensuring access to necessary services and activities.
- Hearing Services: This can include audiologist assessments, ongoing hearing tests, and adjustments or replacements of hearing devices as needed.
- Early Intervention Services: For children with permanent bilateral hearing loss, NDIS provides funding for early intervention programs aimed at supporting developmental milestones and addressing communication challenges from an early age.
- Access to Education and Employment Support: NDIS funding may support access to education and employment opportunities by providing accommodations or assistance tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Counselling and Mental Health Support: Individuals with permanent bilateral hearing loss may face emotional and psychological challenges. NDIS funding can be allocated for counselling and mental health support services.
- Communication and Social Skills Training: Programs that focus on developing effective communication and social interaction skills may be funded to support individuals in various aspects of life.
It’s important to note that NDIS plans are designed individually, and the specific services funded depend on the uniqueness and goals of the person with permanent bilateral hearing loss.
How To Get NDIS Funding For Permanent Bilateral Hearing Loss
Securing NDIS funding for individuals with permanent bilateral hearing loss involves a systematic application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how an individual can pursue NDIS funding:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that the individual meets the eligibility criteria for NDIS. The scheme is available to individuals who have a permanent disability that significantly affects their ability to participate in everyday activities.
- Gather Documentation: Collect relevant documents, including medical reports, assessments, and audiograms, that demonstrate the impact of permanent bilateral hearing loss on the individual’s life and functioning.
- Get NDIS Access Request Form: Get the access request form and fill it out while providing detailed information about the individual’s disability, its effects, and the support required. This form is available on the official NDIS website.
- Submission: Submit the completed Access Request Form alongside the necessary documents. This can be done by mail, submitted online or in person.
- NDIS Planning Meeting: Once the Access Request is approved, an NDIS planning meeting will be set up. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss the individual’s goals, needs, and the types of support and services required. In the meeting, an NDIS plan will be developed. The plan outlines the support and services the patient will be getting.
- Review and Approval: The NDIS plan is reviewed, and once approved, the individual receives a copy.
Conclusion
The NDIS funding provides patients with permanent bilateral hearing loss with the necessary support and services to help them live comfortably. If you know anyone with permanent bilateral hearing loss, help them by contacting us. We will support them in accessing the NDIS funding so they can live fully and comfortably.