The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing recommends referral to Early Intervention Services no later than what age for infants with any degree of unilateral or bilateral hearing loss?

• A. 6 months of age
• B. 9 months of age
• C. 1 year of age
• D. 2 years of age

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that for any degree of hearing loss, starting Early Intervention Services within the first six months of life is recommended to support language and developmental outcomes. The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing emphasizes a rapid pathway: screen by 1 month, diagnose by 3 months, and begin early intervention by 6 months. This six-month goal applies whether the loss is unilateral or bilateral, because even mild or one-sided hearing loss can impact language development if not addressed promptly. Early access to amplification, auditory-verbal therapy, and family-focused communication strategies leads to better speech, language, and social outcomes during the crucial early years. Waiting beyond six months increases the risk of slower language acquisition and related developmental delays.