Social Dimensions of Hearing Loss: Communication, Participation, and Quality of Life Across the Lifespan

Historically, hearing loss research has focused primarily on auditory function, diagnosis, and technological intervention. However, contemporary frameworks emphasize the broader effects of hearing loss on activity, participation, and psychosocial well-being. Communication difficulties may affect family relationships, friendships, workplace interactions, educational experiences, healthcare encounters, and engagement in community life. Individuals with hearing loss frequently report increased listening effort, communication breakdowns, social withdrawal, loneliness, fatigue, and perceived stigma.At the same time, hearing loss affects not only individuals but also communication partners, families, caregivers, and social networks. Emerging research highlights the importance of person-centered care, communication accessibility, social support, and environmental modifications in promoting successful outcomes. A deeper understanding of these social factors is essential for developing interventions and policies that address the full impact of hearing loss on everyday life.Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions worldwide, yet its consequences extend far beyond reduced audibility. Increasing evidence demonstrates that hearing loss influences communication, interpersonal relationships, educational and occupational participation, social engagement, identity, and overall quality of life. Despite advances in hearing technology and clinical interventions, many individuals continue to experience social isolation, listening-related fatigue, stigma, reduced participation, and barriers to inclusion across a variety of settings.The goal of this Research Topic is to advance understanding of the social dimensions of hearing loss across the lifespan. We seek to highlight research that examines how hearing loss shapes social experiences and participation, as well as studies that identify strategies, interventions, policies, and technologies that promote communication access, social connectedness, and inclusion. By bringing together interdisciplinary perspectives, this collection aims to inform clinical practice, public health initiatives, educational programs, and advocacy efforts that support meaningful participation for individuals with hearing loss and their communication partners.This Research Topic welcomes contributions that explore the social, relational, behavioral, and participation-related consequences of hearing loss across childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and older age. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to:- Social participation and community engagement- Communication and relationship dynamics among families, spouses, caregivers, and peers- Listening effort, fatigue, and participation restrictions- Loneliness, social isolation, and psychosocial well-beingStigma, identity, self-advocacy, and disclosure of hearing loss- Educational, workplace, and healthcare communication experiences- Communication accessibility and inclusive environments- Hearing technology and its impact on social functioning and participation- Health literacy, patient-centered care, and shared decision-making- Cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic influences on hearing-related experiences- Community-based interventions, peer support programs, and advocacy initiatives- Public health, policy, and population-level approaches to communication accessWe welcome original research articles, systematic and scoping reviews, qualitative studies, mixed-methods investigations, brief research reports, case studies, perspectives, and opinion papers that contribute to a deeper understanding of the social aspects of hearing loss and their implications for practice and policy. Topic editors: Kathleen Cienkowski, Jonathan J. Suen, Rachael Holt Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/82604/social-dimensions-of-hearing-loss-communication-participation-and-quality-of-life-across-the-lifespan