The Hearing Loss Association of America’s (HLAA) spring 2025 Hearing Life issue addresses the wide-ranging effects of hearing loss. Our cover feature explores its impact on self-identity, confidence and sense of connection, and the importance of education and self-advocacy. Be inspired by a mother-daughter story of health care patient advocacy, learn about HLAA’s legislative goals for 2025 and our new advocacy tool, and discover how to prepare for an emergency with hearing loss. Plus, our 20th Walk4Hearing season, the HLAA 2025 Convention in June, a book review and more quotes from our nationwide community.
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By HLAA Executive Director Barbara Kelley
In her column this issue, “Between Two Ears,” Barbara Kelley reflects on the emotional side of hearing loss, and how HLAA is expanding its resources to support more people in this important area.
By Alison Freeman, Ph.D.
A clinical psychologist with hearing loss explores the wide-reaching effects of this communication disability, including issues relating to identity, personality, mental/emotional health, relationships, employment and social interactions. Dr. Freeman emphasizes education and self-advocacy to counter the psychological impact of hearing loss and effectively navigate the hearing world. Sidebars describe an interactive support group on Facebook and how to become hearing empowered.
By Elaine and Claire McCaffrey
HLAA Board Member Elaine McCaffrey relates how she evolved from a person living with hearing loss to becoming a passionate health care advocate, together with her daughter, Claire, while supporting her late husband during his cancer treatments. This article shares valuable tips on planning ahead for hospital stays as a patient with hearing loss.
By HLAA Director of Public Policy Neil Snyder
Learn about our legislative goals for 2025 and beyond, and a new advocacy tool to make your voice heard on important federal and state issues.
More members of our nationwide community tell us how HLAA positively impacts their lives— continued from the previous Hearing Life issue.
By HLAA Communications Specialist Teri Breier
Natural disasters like the recent wildfires in Los Angeles and Hurricane Helene present additional challenges for people with disabilities, including hearing loss—making them especially at risk. Find out how the HLAA community and hearing device companies assisted fire victims and get tips to prepare for emergencies.
Join us for our 20th year of Walk4Hearing in one of 20 cities around the U.S., see our 2025 schedule and read inspiring stories of families who have been touched by HLAA’s nationwide community in action.
Attendees often describe the annual HLAA Convention as “empowering, inspiring and life-changing.” Discover the exciting opportunities that await you in Indianapolis, June 11–14, including our Research Symposium, Exhibit Hall, educational workshops and more.
By Emily Truell
Read a review of Audacious Optimism, the new memoir by HLAA 2024 Convention keynote speaker Shanna Adamic.
