New UI study aims to help hearing impaired children

The University of Iowa is crisscrossing the state to help children suffering from hearing loss.

It is part of a new study aimed at finding innovative ways to improve services for children.

Five year old Julianna Mascardo has some hearing loss in both ears.

“Sad, because that didn't make me feel very happy,” said Julianna when asked how not being able to hear well made her feel.

Julianna's mom Lori said she was surprised when they found out about her daughter's condition.  Lori is grateful for this new study that allows her to connect with other parents with children suffering from hearing loss as well as learn about resources available to help Julianna cope.

Julianna is one of several children throughout the state participating in the University of Iowa's new study: Outcomes of Children with Hearing Loss.

The study's focus is to learn more about how mild – or severe – hearing loss affects children – six months to six years old.

“We want to know if early fitting of hearing aids is important,” explained Dr. Bruce Tomblin of the University of Iowa.

Mobile testing vans serve as a staging center to test a child's hearing.

“Like if I hear a beep then I put something in,” said Julianna.

Lori said Julianna actually enjoys the testing process as it involves playing games.

“I get prizes when I do a good job,” explained Julianna.

Researchers will use their findings to figure out the best ways to help these children advance their speech, language, social and academic skills.

“What we want to do is provide children with the best communication skills that they can have so they do well in school and they can then do well in their lives,” said Dr. Tomblin.

Julianna starts kindergarten this fall.  She knows being able to hear will be an important part of learning.

“If I don't have any hearing aids when my mom reads a book I can't hear,” she said.

If you have a child with confirmed bilateral mild-to-sever hearing loss, you are encouraged to enroll in the study.  The University of Iowa will pay $15 per hour for participating.  For more information, contact Marlea O'Brien at 1-800-551-5601 or marlea-obrien@uiowa.edu.

Jami Brinton, KCRG-TV