Since 1927, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has celebrated Better Hearing and Speech Month each May to raise public awareness of speech and language disorders that affect 14 million Americans. The annual event provides opportunities to raise awareness about communication disorders and to promote treatment that can improve the quality of life for those who experience problems with speaking, understanding or hearing.

Speech and language disorders can take many forms and can limit academic achievement, social adjustment, and career development at any age. An individual may be born with a speech or language disorder, or it may be caused by accidental injury or illness. Hearing problems also can occur at age. Quality of life can be significantly compromised for people with hearing loss — as can that of their families.

“Fortunately, most people with speech and language problems can be helped,” says Michelle Soukup, certified speech-language pathologist at AMC. “Even if the problem cannot be eliminated, we can teach people with speech and language problems strategies to help them cope. People may not fully regain their capacity to speak and understand, but a speech-language pathologist can help them live more independently.”

And for those with hearing problems, there also is help available.

“New and improved treatments for hearing loss are now available, thanks to advances in health care and medicine” says Susan Lynn, licensed audiologist at AMC. “Treating hearing loss has been proven to have very positive effects on quality of life. Learning about hearing loss, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly what can be done about it, starts with a basic understanding of your ears. Understanding the type and extent of hearing loss in each individual is the first step in determining the most appropriate treatment.”

To schedule an appointment with a speech-language pathologist at AMC, call the Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Center at 507-434-1999. To schedule an appointment with an audiologist at AMC, call the ENT Department at 507-433-9088. Visit www.austinmedicalcenter.org for more information.