Adult Audiology service for patients with additional needs

Adult Audiology Service

• Author ID: LH
• Leaflet Ref: Audio 012
• Version: 6
• Leaflet title: Adult Audiology service for patients with additional needs
• Last review: January 2025
• Expiry date: January 2027

Introduction

It is estimated that approximately 10-40% of adults with a learning disability have a hearing impairment. If hearing has not previously been assessed, barriers to communication can significantly impact conversation, group involvement, and self-confidence. This information is aimed at healthcare professionals, carers, and significant others who suspect a previously undiagnosed hearing impairment or feel that a reassessment of hearing would be beneficial and would like to arrange a hearing assessment.

Aims

We offer a specialist service for adults with additional needs or learning disabilities who require a hearing assessment, reassessment, or support with their hearing aids. During the hearing assessment appointment, the Audiologist will:

• Establish concerns about hearing in different listening situations
• Obtain a brief history
• Examine the ears
• Complete a hearing assessment, if appropriate

The hearing assessment can be modified to the individual’s needs. Sometimes, sounds are introduced through headphones, and the patient is asked to respond with a button, verbally, or through interaction with the Audiologist or significant other. Further results can be obtained via patient observation. We have equipment that provides results without requiring a response and have links with departments for further objective testing if needed. We maintain close links with ENT for medical support and an in-house hearing therapy service to provide support for the individual, family, and carers. The Audiologist will develop an agreed care pathway.

Who is Suitable for Referral?

New Patients

We accept referrals for clients with mild-severe learning disabilities or other additional needs.

Existing Patients

We can review any patient who has previously been under the care of our Audiology service and feels that a hearing reassessment would be beneficial.

Who Can Refer Patients?

• GP
• ENT
• Community LD Team
• Social workers

How to Refer?

Relatives, friends, or carers who suspect the patient is having difficulty hearing can contact the department or GP to discuss their concerns. It is advisable that a GP or nurse practitioner examines the ears for wax before the hearing assessment appointment.

Referral Form: Any of the above-listed professionals can complete their own referral form or the Audiology referral form, available as a link on the website. The referral form will be read by the Audiologist before an appointment is arranged by the clerical team.

The LD Team Consists of:

• Audiology Services Deputy Manager x 1
• Senior Audiologist x 2
• Associate Audiologist x 1

Contact Us

Telephone: 01942 774667
Fax: 01942 774639
Email: audiology@wwl.nhs.uk
Web: https://www.wwl.nhs.uk/Specialities/Audiology/

Audiology Service

Thomas Linacre Centre

Parsons Walk

Wigan

WN1 1RU