Lilavati Hospital opens auditory verbal therapy clinic for children with hearing loss
Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre has started an auditory verbal therapy (AVT) clinic for children with hearing loss. The hospital said it opened the clinic because such children need comprehensive rehabilitation.
The clinic will offer children with hearing loss specialised therapy and support that involves the whole family. It will focus especially on children who have undergone cochlear implant surgery. A cochlear implant is an electronic hearing device that gives children with hearing loss the ability to hear sound.
The clinic aims to help children listen, speak and communicate. It also aims to support them in taking part in everyday life and in their studies.
According to a study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, about 5 to 6 of every 1,000 newborns have hearing loss. In most such cases, hearing loss is identified only after key developmental milestones have passed. This underlines the need for early detection and timely, appropriate treatment. Rehabilitation is vital for such children to develop language and speech well.
The hospital said cochlear implants help children hear sounds, but that alone does not enable effective communication. AVT helps children use the sounds they hear to develop speech and language skills, making it easier for them to talk, learn and mix with others. Through regular therapy sessions, children are prepared to take part in everyday conversation and learning activities.
Rajiv K. Mehta, Permanent Trustee for Life of Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, said at the launch of the clinic: "Cochlear implantation is the first step in a child's hearing journey. Through our AVT clinic, we want to ensure that children not only gain the ability to hear sound, but also develop the speaking skills and confidence needed to participate fully in school and everyday life. This initiative reflects our commitment to making good hearing rehabilitation services easily available to all children, including those from needy and underprivileged communities."
The hospital said the AVT clinic further strengthens its commitment to social service. It also helps children lead independent and easier lives, the hospital said.
