Deafblind people's experiences of cochlear implantation

Abstract

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that create the sensation of hearing in those who cannot obtain any benefit from conventional hearing aids. This article examines the experience of cochlear implantation in a select group of individuals with acquired deafblindness, focusing on three key themes: access to communication, information and mobility. Research was conducted using semi-structured interviews with five individuals known to the national charity, Deafblind UK, and explores participants’ feelings about individual problems encountered prior to implantation, the experience of cochlear implant surgery, and the outcome. The findings confirm that deafblindness is a unique disability and that cochlear implants are beneficial in terms of improvements to quality of life and communication, especially for those who are post-lingually deaf.