The Language Skills and Communication Strategies used by Children (5-11 Years) with a Moderate to Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss, in Accra, Ghana.

Abstract

Background: Children with Hearing Loss are susceptible to language, social and literacy difficulties. Diagnosis time and (Re)habilitation methods available in developed countries are not same in sub Saharan Africa and Ghana to be precise. Data and studies on language development and hearing impairment and rehabilitation resources are very limited. Aim: This study aimed to explore the language levels and communication strategies of children with hearing impairment who use hearing aids and some amount of speech therapy. Methods: A population of 6 children with hearing impairment using hearing aids and one parent each were sampled. Photo elicitation task, Jenga game and questionnaires were used to collect language sample, use and need for gestures, and parents’ impressions respectively. Language samples were analysed for Browns stages, social pragmatic skills and Mean Length of Utterances. Parent child games were scored for amount of gestures and strategies used and needed by child. Content analysis was used to analyse the parent’s responses. Results: A significant delay across a spectrum in the language skills of all participants. Strategies to understand information were varied and they required minimum to moderate. Mean Length of Utterance results were inconsistent due to unintelligible speech and insufficient utterances. Use of gestures was normal and there was no relationship between degree of HL and children’s deficits. Conclusions: Late diagnosis and rehabilitation in Ghana leaves a gap in children’s language and education that will not likely be bridged throughout their lives. First language and cultural influences may be responsible as well. Neonatal screening recommended.