The Journey from Hearing Aids to Cochlear Implants: What to Expect
Date: Saturday, March 22
Time: 10 a.m. PT on Zoom (please join online 5 minutes early)
For many individuals with hearing loss, there comes a time when hearing aids are no longer enough. Deciding to transition to a cochlear implant can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can help make the journey smoother. This presentation will explore the options available for individuals and their families, providing valuable insights into when and why a cochlear implant may be the next step.
We will cover:
- How a Cochlear Implant Works – Understanding the technology that bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear to directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
- Who is a Candidate? – Key factors in determining eligibility, including degree of hearing loss and hearing aid benefit.
- When to Get an Evaluation – Signs that hearing aids may no longer be enough and the importance of early intervention.
- Realistic Expectations – What a cochlear implant can and cannot do, and the journey of adapting to new sounds.
- Activation Day – What happens when the implant is turned on and what to expect in the first few weeks.
- Follow-Up and Rehabilitation – The critical role of consistent device usage, auditory therapy, mapping sessions, and long-term support for success.
Whether you’re just starting to explore cochlear implants or are ready to take the next step, this presentation will provide valuable insights, answer common questions, and offer support from those who have been through the process. We look forward to seeing you there!
Presenter:
Rebecca Lewis, Au.D., FAAA
Audiology Director, Adult and Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program
Rebecca (Becky) Lewis, AuD, is an audiologist and the Audiology Director of the Adult & Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. She also holds the position of Adjunct Professor at Mount Saint Mary University / John Tracey Deaf and Hard of Hearing program. She has provided rehabilitative services including hearing aids, hearing protection, Osseo integrated devices, auditory brainstem implant and cochlear implant (CI) services to adults and children.
She serves on the California Newborn Hearing Screening Learning Committee to improve outcomes for children with hearing loss across the state. She is also a State Champion for the American Cochlear Implant Alliance aiming to improve access to CIs nationwide. She is dedicated to serving the community using a whole patient approach with evidenced-based and compassionate care.
Prior to joining PNI, Dr. Lewis held a range of positions at the USC Caruso Family Center for Childhood Communication, UCLA Medical Center, The Learning Center School for the Deaf and at the world-renowned House Clinic. She developed a hearing wellness program for the USC Thornton School of Music, and has published in the field of cochlear implantation.
Dr. Lewis received her Doctorate in Audiology from Vanderbilt University. She completed residencies at the Greater Los Angeles Veterans Administration and at the Care Center at the House Ear Institute.