Some people suffer hearing loss at birth, while others over the course of their life after being subjected to disease, loud noise or physical injury that result to ear damage and hearing loss. It can be debilitating to lose one's hearing. Cochlear implants are electronic medical devices for solving hearing loss, but it is not a perfect solution. Here are reasons why and why not cochlear implants are beneficial.
List of Pros of Cochlear Implants
1. Improves Hearing
For some people with hearing loss, the chance of hearing again, or hearing for the first time opens doors of opportunities for them. It allows them to cultivate and explore that part of their lives, which was otherwise absent or damaged. This is the main advantage of cochlear implants. …show more content…
Promotes Safety People with hearing loss cannot hear sirens, ringing bells, horns and other warning sounds. They cannot hear the sound of a vehicle or wild animal coming their way. The ability to hear helps a person to be alert of their surroundings. Cochlear implants may help people to hear these critical warning sounds and help them to be safe.
List of Cons of Cochlear Implants
1. Very Expensive
Many insurance companies do not cover cochlear implants, so the person has to shoulder all the costs, which could be the biggest limiting factor for people with hearing loss. Normally, the implant and after-surgery care would run at least $50,000, something that very few people can afford.
2. Requires Adjustment
Having to hear sounds again in a long time, or for the first time requires adjustment. Some sounds may not be transmitted properly by the device, which poses problems. It may be easier and quicker for children to adjust than adults, who need to learn about sounds for the first time. Then there are physical activity limitations for those with cochlear implants. They cannot join contact sports, water sports, and any activity that may damage the cochlear implant.
3. Surgical