Cochlear Implant Connections: A Biopsychosocial Audiologic Rehabilitation Program for Late-Deafened Adults With Cochlear Implants

Abstract

In this article, the authors describe a biopsychosocial approach to group audiologic/aural rehabilitation (AR) for late deafened adults with cochlear implants. A detailed account of Cochlear Implant Connections is provided, including the individual components of this innovative program. A qualitative review of written narratives and videotaped AR sessions illustrates the ongoing needs, expectations, challenges, and experiences of this underserved patient population. These challenges underscore the need for ongoing AR, including instruction, counseling, and support, to promote late deafened adults' psychosocial adjustment and to maximize their peripheral and central auditory adaptation to cochlear implant use.