Join the 41st Annual Convention Celebrating Hearing Health in Louisville, Kentucky

A Celebration of Hearing Health in Louisville

The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) is set to host its landmark 41st annual convention in Louisville, Kentucky from June 10 to 12, 2026. This event serves as a vital gathering point for individuals affected by hearing loss, ranging from healthcare professionals to advocates, who come to share insights, experiences, and innovations related to hearing health.

The HLAA convention aims to unite over 50 million people in the United States who experience some form of hearing impairment. Attendees will engage in a multitude of activities designed to educate and inform, such as keynote sessions, product demonstrations, and a research symposium focusing on advancements in hearing assistive technology. This year, the convention promises an impressive lineup of speakers, including Dr. Jan Blustein from New York University and Dr. Nicholas Lesica from University College London, both leading experts in the field.

Key Highlights of the Event

1. General Sessions and Keynotes: Participants will have the chance to hear from industry leaders and visionaries about the latest trends in hearing technology and advocacy. The variety of sessions means attendees can tailor their experience according to their interests, whether they are looking to learn about the latest research or personal stories of triumph over hearing loss.

2. Product Demonstrations: Attendees will also be able to see first-hand the latest innovations in hearing aids, remote microphone systems, and consumer audio solutions. These demonstrations not only showcase the effectiveness of these products but also provide a platform for manufacturers to connect with consumers.

3. Research Symposium: The convention will feature a research symposium supported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. This includes presentations by notable researchers discussing artificial intelligence in hearing health, providing insights into the future of technology in this sector.

4. Advocacy Focus: Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions surrounding disability rights and how current political climates are influencing policies on accessibility. This is crucial for those who work or advocate for improvements in insurance coverage for assistive devices and hearing health standards.

5. Community Impact: One of the unique aspects of the HLAA convention is the emphasis on community-level impact. It allows attendees to explore how local organizations and individuals can collaborate to address hearing loss and improve accessibility retraining for both organizational services and legislation.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Accessibility is a top priority for HLAA. The convention will feature real-time captioning, hearing loops for assistive listening, and Auracast™ broadcast audio capabilities to ensure that every attendee can fully participate in sessions. Sign language interpretation will also be available during main plenary sessions and selected workshops to accommodate diverse audiences.

Media Participation

Members of the press are warmly invited to attend HLAA 2026. With numerous opportunities for interviews and discussions with attendees, exhibitors, and experts, reporters can uncover compelling stories about the lives of those affected by hearing loss, shedding light on both the challenges they face and the breakthroughs that improve their quality of life.

About the HLAA

Since its inception in 1979, the Hearing Loss Association of America has been at the forefront of advocacy for the millions of Americans living with hearing loss. As a leading consumer organization, HLAA provides essential resources, a supportive community, and a platform for education and empowerment in hearing health. Through its network of over 120 chapters and events like the Walk4Hearing, HLAA strives to improve accessibility and quality of life for those affected by hearing impairment.

Join us in Louisville to be part of this transformative experience that promises to inspire and educate all who attend. Whether you are living with hearing loss, an advocate, or a healthcare professional, the HLAA convention is a place for shared experiences and collective growth in hearing health.