Medical, Social, and Educational Support for Children with Hearing Impairments: The Path to Effective Rehabilitation and Socialization

Abstract

The article presents a study on the effectiveness of an optimized organizational model for the rehabilitation of children with hearing impairments. The proposed model combines medical, social, and educational services through face-to-face, outpatient, and remote interventions. A total of 224 children aged 6–10 years participated, divided into two equal groups: one received rehabilitation under the new comprehensive program, while the other followed standard procedures. Over 12 months, assessments included physical, speech, cognitive, psycho-emotional, and social-educational parameters. The purpose: to optimize the rehabilitation system for children with hearing impairments by improving the organizational model of medical, social, and educational support, enhancing recovery effectiveness, quality of life, and social integration. Materials and methods. The study applied organizational-legal, historical, content analysis, and structural-organizational modeling methods. Sociological tools, such as questionnaires and interviews with parents and teachers, were used. Statistical analysis employed Student’s t-test, χ², and Microsoft Excel and Statistica 6.0 software. Results. Children who participated in the new rehabilitation program showed greater improvement in auditory perception, speech intelligibility, vocabulary, fine motor skills, and emotional stability compared to the standard group. They also demonstrated higher confidence, social engagement, and academic success. The use of cochlear implants and active family involvement enhanced rehabilitation outcomes, while barriers included limited access in rural areas and a shortage of specialists. Conclusions. The integrated, family-centered model proved more effective than traditional approaches, improving functional, emotional, and social development. Broader implementation and long-term evaluation are recommended.