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10/24/2016  |   12:45 PM - 1:45 PM   |  BGPOP Building 4A/B/C

Ear and Hearing Screenings During International Special Olympics Events Reveal A Worldwide Hearing Health Needs in Individuals with Intellectual Disability

A study evaluated the prevalence of ear and hearing problems of over 70,000 athletes (age 8 to 89 years) with intellectual disability, competing at one of the worldwide organized Special Olympics events in the past 9 years. These athletes were offered a free ear and hearing screening during Special Olympics Events. The screenings were conducted by trained professional volunteers and health-care students, following a strict screening protocol. Results show an increased incidence of ear and hearing problems in individuals with intellectual disability throughout the world. Differences between regions were also found. Most problems were unknown for the individuals themselves as well as for their direct environment. General advice was given, individual recommendations were made. At some occasions, hearing aids are fitted on site. The follow-up process for the athletes is challenging, in many cases, due to lack of necessary resources, lack of professional competences, but also lack of education of family and caregivers. This study reveals an urgent need for a regular universal hearing screening program within this population, with a structured follow-up process, adapted hearing assessment techniques, and adapted treatment strategies. Also, specific training of health professionals and informative sessions for caregivers and family members is necessary. Cooperation with existing public health services may facilitate this process in different regions worldwide.

• Example of worldwide used hearing screening program for people with intellectual disability
• Increase awareness on ear and hearing problems in people with intellectual disabilty
• Hearing health challenges in people with intellectual disability that need to be conquered

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Melina Willems (POC,Primary Presenter), Artevelde University College Ghent, Belgium, meliwi@arteveldehs.be;
- Audiologist (+ Speech-Pathologist + Deaf Interpreter) - Lecturer in Audiology, Artevelde University College, Audiology Department, Ghent/Belgium (1994-present) - Global Clinical Advisor (2013-present) and International Professional Volunteer (2000-present), Special Olympics Healthy Hearing Program - Audiologist, 2 University Hospitals, ENT-department, Brussels/Belgium (1991-2008)