An examination of the mothers' perceptions about the quality of life of the families with a child with an additional disability to hearing loss

In this study, it was aimed to examine the quality of life of families with children who have a child with hearing loss in addition to disability according to the perception of the mother. The participants of this study, which was designed as a phenomenological study, were seven mothers who had children with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability or visual impairment in addition to hearing loss. Research data were collected through semi-structured interviews, reflective researcher diaries, observations and document analysis techniques. In the analysis of the research data, content analysis was used in accordance with the phenomenological design. Efforts were made to conceptualize the data and reach the themes that could describe the relevant phenomenon. The results obtained are presented with a descriptive narrative and direct quotations are often included. The findings obtained as a result of the research are families with a child who is affected by hearing loss and disability; it shows that the quality of family life is affected in terms of physical health, psychological aspects, participation in social life, economic aspects and adequacy of functionality. Apart from these areas, the disability that affects the quality of life of families more is the disability seen with hearing loss and the expectations and suggestions that may lead to the improvement of the quality of life of the families are from the mothers themselves; appropriate adaptation to the process, from their environment; support and understanding, and they can have independent living skills from their children.