From Publishers Weekly
Blindness and other readily evident physical disabilities typically evoke sympathy. Yet, argues Himber in her persuasive book, there exists an insidious prejudice against those who suffer from the "invisible handicap" of hearing impairment--a bias for which its victims, who often go to heroic lengths to deny the affliction, perhaps bear some blame. Written by one who has been hard of hearing since childhood but was only recently diagnosed, this work is at once a plea for understanding and a practical guide--not only for the hearing-impaired but for the families, friends and co-workers who must communicate with them. The author discusses "living with my first hearing aid," offers "ten commandments for people who live with a hard-of-hearing person" (e.g., "Be patient," "Accept reality," "Speak slowly") and in appendices addresses her topic in a useful, accessible Q & A format. Both the hearing and hearing-impaired will benefit from Himber's frank and informative work on the clinical aspects and the emotional and societal ramifications of a problem that, directly or not, affects us all. Her book deserves wide readership.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From Library Journal
Despite the fact that 20 million Americans have hearing impairments, hearing loss is often regarded as a handicap accepted by neither the affected individual nor his or her family and friends. Until recently, little was available in the form of sophisticated devices to improve hearing or support groups or consumer information for the hearing impaired. In this reassuring book, the author chronicles her own hearing loss, her gradual acceptance of her condition, and her personal experiences with a variety of hearing aids. Although she focuses on the impact hearing loss has had on her life, she provides a good deal of useful information on kinds of hearing loss and how hearing is evaluated, and suggests some helpful coping mechanisms, both technological and emotional. Appendixes include a resource list.
- Karen McNally Bensing, The Benjamin Rose Inst. Lib., Cleveland
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
- Karen McNally Bensing, The Benjamin Rose Inst. Lib., Cleveland
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
