The needs of parents of children with cochlear implants

The cochlear implantation process involves decision making, irreversible surgery, and highly demanding (re)habilitation. A mismatch during this process in how the parents and professionals view parental needs for information, guidance, support, and collaboration could undermine the effectiveness of an intervention program. The present study surveyed 35 mothers of cochlear implant (CI) candidates or current users on the relative importance of various topics in a parenttargeted intervention program preceding and/or following cochlear implantation. The authors also surveyed mothers on the desired timing and manner of service delivery, as well as preferred team member with whom to work. Results showed that the optimal intervention should involve a coordinator-led team of professionals from multiple disciplines; provide information in all related topics and services (e.g., medical, educational, technical, communication); emotional support is essential; and parents should be given an opportunity to meet parents of other implanted children to achieve these informational and emotional needs. In addition, information delivery should be customized to the needs of the family at various intervals throughout the process.