Vaccines Trial for First Nations Children
Vaccines trialled on First Nations children in the Northern Territory to combat high rates of hearing loss are showing significant promise, according to the research team involved. Australian First Nations children experience the highest reported rates of otitis media (middle ear infection) globally. “All young children should be able to hear, listen, speak and learn […]
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Noise-induced Hearing Loss – it’s Real!
Earplugs are a simple but important tool to help protect against noise-induced hearing loss. They can be a total lifesaver, especially if you know you’re going to need them ahead of time, like when you’re headed to a concert. How loud can concerts get? The answer is seriously loud. Sound is measured in decibels – […]
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Such a Rich Diversity in Sign Languages
Many people assume that there is only one sign language, and express disbelief when told otherwise. Why? Wouldn’t it be more sensible if there was just one signed language? Then Deaf people could communicate with each other? (note that ‘Deaf’ with a capital ‘D’ is used to refer to a person with lived experience who […]
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Social Connections: Whole-of-society Approach
Human interactions positively impact both our mental and physical health. Cultivating strong relationships and sustaining social connections significantly contribute to our overall wellbeing. These connections provide us with a sense of belonging and support, enhancing our happiness and reducing stress. Being socially connected can even extend our lifespan. Research has found that individuals with robust […]
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Button Batteries – the Dangers Persist
Thirty-five children worldwide have died from swallowing or inserting button batteries, including three in Australia. Despite mandatory safety standards introduced by the Australian government in 2022, there have been 110 product recalls. The growing number of injuries and fatalities has led experts to call for urgent redesigns of these batteries. Sophie Stevenson, whose daughter Evy […]
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Addressing the Auslan Workforce Shortage
In 2022, a certified interpreter was relocated to the Northern Territory through a joint effort between Deaf Connect and the Northern Territory Government. Prior to their arrival, the state had been without a full-time interpreter since 2019. While the Northern Territory’s experience of relying on fly-in fly-out interpreters is an extreme case, it is not […]
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