Making Connections
It’s no secret that online social media has helped people connect in many different ways. From online dating sites, to gaming networks, to celebrity fan forums – social media helps strangers across the globe realise that they’re not alone in their interests, passions and challenges. This rings true for people with hearing loss as well says Rasmus Philip, a strategist with DigitasLBi an agency that specialises in social media.
“Social media can make life with a hearing loss much easier,” says Philip. “These sites allow people with hearing loss to be part of a community and tap into relevant conversations and discussions between their peers and even hearing professionals. They can make you aware of the fact that you are not the only one with a hearing loss, it doesn’t just give you information about hearing loss, it also gives you a safe place to share your experiences, questions, and concerns.”
Widex helps people with hearing loss connect via several social media sites. Widex social media communities have over 80,000 members who discuss everything from listening tips, to hearing aid fashion, to first encounters with hearing aids. Personal stories and videos are also shared on the Widex Blog.
Daily interaction has resulted in some lively conversations on Widex media sites – both positive and not positive. But feedback of any kind is extremely helpful says Widex Public Relations Manager Peter Hentze Knudsen.
“The feedback that we get from our Facebook and Twitter communities is very important,” he says. “We forward user comments and suggestions to our Research and Development team, who use them as inspiration for new products.”
Gaining Support
Hearing loss can be a tough subject to talk about with your family or friends, and sometimes it’s easier to reach out to someone who has “been there.” There are several online forums for people with hearing loss. One of these online communities is run by the UK-based charity, Action on Hearing Loss. In addition to information about hearing loss and tinnitus, the charity provides online forums for people with hearing loss across the globe.
“The aim is to support the one in six people who are affected by hearing loss, deafness and tinnitus,” says Rachel Timson, Senior Information Line Officer at Action on Hearing Loss. “We hope our forums offer a safe and welcoming place for people to share their experience and knowledge of hearing loss and to encourage and enable others to take action and find the best support available for them.”
This article has been extracted from the Listen- World of Widex magazine 2014. All credit belongs to Widex.
Bryce Hearing Services’ social media page is available at: https://www.facebook.com/bryce.hearing
