Quality of life of children with cochlear implants in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background

This study evaluated cochlear implants’ (CI) influence on various dimensions of children’s quality of life (QoL) in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on communication abilities, general functioning, social integration, independence, and educational outcomes.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and 155 parents of children aged 1–5 years who had undergone cochlear implantation were recruited. Data were collected using the validated Children with Cochlear Implants: Parental Perspectives (CCIPP) questionnaire and analyzed using a combination of descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and correlation analyses.

Results

The findings revealed a substantial enhancement in communication skills, environmental awareness, and emotional well-being in children with CIs. However, despite these improvements, challenges remain in areas such as broader social integration, educational support, and promotion of independence. While some parents perceived the implantation process to be financially and emotionally burdensome, the long-term benefits were deemed to outweigh these initial difficulties.

Implications

This study underscores CIs’ pivotal role of CIs in improving the QoL of Saudi deaf or hard-hearing children. The findings highlight the necessity of developing integrated support systems that encompass the medical, educational, and social domains. These insights have substantial potential to inform policy decisions and enhance the provision of multidisciplinary services for children with CIs. From a practical perspective, these findings highlight the need for coordinated efforts among health care professionals, educators, and policymakers to establish robust and accessible support frameworks, thereby facilitating improved developmental, educational, and social outcomes for children with CIs and their families.