Hearing loss is an invisible disability and like other disabilities often command the interest and attention of philanthropist and NGOs. The interesting aspect is the do-gooders always have genuine interest in helping out but are often unsure where to start.
Take for example the Telco that desires to assist with hearing loss. In developing countries, the common approach is to focus on hearing aids distribution. Most do it by getting hearing aids dispensers to assemble hearing impaired in the community and in the presence of TVs and the press, proceed to 'screen' and administer hearing aids in few cases.
There is often no follow up to determine who benefits and who does not after such photo-shoots. Some even hand out hearing aids without ear moulds or ear inserts.
Now the facts is hearing aids only benefit a third of the hearing impaired (arguably a quarter) and focusing solely on these is neglecting the remaining 3/4 - those who require middle ear surgery, those who require Cochlear implants, and those that cannot be helped by any currently known measures and likely to require educational and occupational rehabilitation.
So while we appreciate efforts geared towards assisting the hearing impaired in our communities by donating hearing aids, please be mindful that there are countless others who would not benefit from hearing aids and equally require assistance. As such please note you are only focusing on a third of the hearing loss story.
