‘It’s all on me’: Exploring Experiences of Parents with Hearing-Impaired Children in the NDIS and Impact on Family Wellbeing

Abstract

Parents of hearing-impaired children face unique experiences and challenges, including emotional responses to diagnosis, adapting to their child’s needs, and overall changed life circumstances. They face complex decisions surrounding hearing devices, communication, and education. Additionally, such parents in Australia have been confronted with another prominent challenge, navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The scheme is in its infancy, with numerous issues reported. Therefore, ongoing research into NDIS experiences is warranted. No research to date has explored the impact of the NDIS on the wellbeing of families with hearing-impaired children, a noteworthy endeavour for future research.