Hearing Impairments (HI)

Definition and Classification

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Hearing Impairments are

defined as an impairment in hearing, whether permanent or fluctuating, that adversely affects a

child’s educational performance but that is not included under the definition of deafness in this

section.

Characteristics

Common symptoms of hearing impairments are ringing in the ears, speech delay in child,

hearing problem, sensitivity to sound, and social isolation. Difficulty with oral expression, social/

emotional or interpersonal skills, and following verbal directions.

Causes

Hearing loss is defined as one of three types conductive, sensorineural, mixed

(combination of the two). Chronic exposure to loud noises can contribute to hearing loss. Age is

also another factor. Some other factors that can cause hearing loss are excessive ear wax,

genetics, and infections. Damage to inner ear or ruptured eardrum can cause hearing loss. Other

medical issues can also contribute to hearing loss. For examples some medications can cause

hearing loss.

Prevalence

About 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born with a detectable

level of hearing loss in one or both ears. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2021)

Thirteen percent of people in the United States aged 12 years or older has hearing loss in both

ears, based on standard hearing examinations.

Identification & Assessment

When a student is suspected of a hearing impairment identifying and assessing must be

done correctly to ensure the students is getting the resources needed to be successful.