Cochlear implant recipient volunteer partnerships : perceptions of an adult peer community

Abstract

PURPOSE : To describe adult cochlear implant (CI) recipient volunteer partnerships, as perceived by CI volunteers, in terms of support and informational counselling. By exploring the dynamics of these partnerships, valuable insights are gained into the effectiveness of volunteer support systems, contributing to peer-based interventions and the overall well-being of CI recipients navigating the complexities of cochlear implantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS : Focus group discussions were conducted with eight adult CI volunteers, and qualitative data were thematically analysed. RESULTS : Four overarching themes were identified: (1) Sharing personal experiences, (2) Information broker, (3) Providing support, and (4) Recommendations for CI volunteer partnerships. CONCLUSIONS : Insights from CI volunteers highlight the value of peer support in enhancing person-centred audiological care. The study identifies a need for structured volunteer involvement in CI programs and marks an initial exploration of CI volunteering and mentoring.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION • Collaboration between CI volunteers and hearing healthcare professionals highlights the importance of CI programs providing comprehensive informational counselling. • Counselling should integrate technical aspects of CIs with personal experiences shared by CI volunteers, addressing both clinical and human dimensions of the CI journey. • CI volunteers play a critical role in providing emotional support throughout the CI journey, suggesting the need to integrate peer mentoring into rehabilitation programs to sustain CI recipients’ psychological well-being. • CI programs should involve CI volunteers in advocacy efforts to raise awareness and foster supportive CI communities.