Overview

Hearing loss refers to a partial or complete reduction in the ability to hear sounds. It can affect one or both ears and may be present at birth, develop gradually over time, or occur suddenly due to illness, injury, or environmental factors. Hearing loss exists on a wide spectrum, ranging from mild to profound, and experiences vary greatly from person to person.

Hearing loss does not reflect intelligence, capability, or engagement. With appropriate supports and access, individuals with hearing loss can communicate, connect, and participate fully in daily life.

Common Experiences

Individuals with hearing loss may experience:

• Difficulty hearing certain sounds, pitches, or speech

• Challenges understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments

• Reliance on visual cues, lip-reading, or captions

• Use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive listening devices

• Fatigue from increased effort required to process sound

Hearing loss is often invisible, which can lead to misunderstandings or unmet support needs.

Support Looks Different for Everyone

Support for hearing loss focuses on access, communication clarity, and individual choice. Support may include:

• Hearing aids or assistive listening technology

• Captioning for videos, meetings, and live events

• Clear speech and visual communication strategies

• Environmental adjustments to reduce background noise

• Flexible communication methods based on preference

Support works best when accommodations are offered proactively, not only when requested.

For Families & Caregivers

Families and caregivers often support advocacy, access planning, and communication across settings such as schools, workplaces, and healthcare environments. Understanding the invisible effort involved in listening can help reduce frustration and build patience.

Respectful communication and flexibility make a meaningful difference.

How Infinity Pathways Supports Hearing Loss

Infinity Pathways creates tools that help individuals and caregivers communicate access needs, document preferences, and share important information across environments. Our resources support understanding, preparedness, and respectful interaction—helping reduce barriers and build inclusion.

A Note on Language

Some individuals identify as “hard of hearing,” while others prefer “person with hearing loss.” Language preferences vary, and at Infinity Pathways we respect personal choice and honor how individuals define their experience.