Abstract
Thirty mild and moderately hearing impaired children (under 70 dBHL) were evaluated and 4difficult cases are reported.
The first case preferred the expensive all in-the-ear canal type (ITE) hearing aids compared to the behind-the-ear type. However, he was able to wear ITE hearing aids on both side assisted by some degree of personal contribution, and as a result, he exhibited good language development. The second case was able to change over to a hearing aid after remaking another small type of ITE, but this was tolerated for only a short time, and the development of language was not good. The third case exhibited a Trough-Shaped Curve of hearing loss, and generally did not use any ITE hearing aid. The fourth case who had refused to wear a hearing aid, was finally persuaded to wear an ITE from 14 years of age, and subsequently reported that he would have gained more confidence in communication if he had worn a hearing aid at a younger age.
Early wearing of a hearing aid is important for mild and moderate hearing impaired children. Guidance for their parents and communication training of the patients are highly important measures.
