Embodying hearing loss: confronting the issue and adjusting to a new norm

OBJECTIVE: To understand how older adults living with hearing loss cope with and manage their hearing loss. DESIGN: Grounded theory methodology with a patient-oriented approach was used to generate a theory grounded in data obtained from older adults living with hearing loss. Constant comparative analysis was used. STUDY SAMPLE: Participants included 68 individuals aged 50 years and older with self-reported hearing loss living in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. RESULTS: We report on two theoretical constructs of the psychosocial process of embodying hearing loss. 'Confronting the issue' captures individuals' experiences after they reached a turning point in acknowledging their hearing loss journey and began searching for services and supports that includes (1) accessing services and supports, (2) receiving the diagnosis, and (3) teasing out options. 'Adjusting to a new norm' describes participants' experiences as they started to navigate their life with hearing loss that includes (1) benefits and challenges living with a hearing assistive device, (2) developing coping strategies, and (3) envisioning a future living with hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS: Embodying hearing loss includes both understanding the concept of hearing loss and engaging with the challenges, emotions and experiences associated with it to help promote understanding, support and inclusion in society for those affected by hearing loss.