| Abstract [eng] |
Cochlear implants (CIs) represent a significant medical advancement; however, their success is heavily influenced by various social factors. Disparities in healthcare access and its quality, particularly in low-income or rural populations, can delay treatment, limit rehabilitation opportunities, and worsen outcomes. The high cost of implants and therapy may prevent access, especially for financially constrained families, whereas insufficient follow-up care can hinder speech and auditory development. Education access as well as quality play a crucial role in the development of CI users, especially in speech and language acquisition. However, children with CIs often face stigmatization, social isolation, and educational challenges. Parental involvement and understanding are key, but lower educational levels or misconception can impede support, further hindering cognitive and social growth in educational environments. Social and community support is vital for mental well-being, yet societal stigma and a limited understanding of CI technology often result in social exclusion or misperceptions. This lack of community integration affects personal and professional growth, affecting the overall quality of life of CI users. Economic status is directly linked to access to healthcare, with families in lower socioeconomic brackets facing greater financial strain. Limited insurance coverage or access to support programs creates treatment disparities, with fewer resources for rehabilitation and follow-up care. These financial inequalities exacerbate health outcome disparities among CI users. The neighbourhood and physical environment also significantly impact CI user outcomes. Rural or underserved areas often lack specialized care and therapy facilities, delaying CI intervention and rehabilitation. Isolated living conditions may lead to loneliness and social exclusion, compounding the challenges CI users face in their everyday lives. Overall, the challenges faced by cochlear implant users extend beyond the technology itself, deeply influenced by healthcare and education access and quality, the social and community context, economic stability, and the neighbourhood and physical environment. These social factors often contribute to significant disparities, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to support CI users in overcoming these obstacles and improving their quality of life. |
