Communication Partner Training
Also written as: CPT — Communication Partner Training
Structured education and coaching provided to family members, caregivers, or frequent communication partners of a person with hearing loss to improve interaction effectiveness.
Full Definition
Communication partner training (CPT) is a rehabilitative component in which significant others—spouses, family members, colleagues, or carers—receive guidance on communication strategies, environmental modifications, and psychosocial awareness to facilitate more effective interaction with a hearing-impaired individual. Evidence suggests that CPT significantly enhances outcomes for the person with hearing loss beyond device-centred interventions alone. CPT may be delivered individually or within group programmes. Editors of rehabilitation programme descriptions must distinguish CPT from communication strategies training, which is aimed at the patient; CPT is explicitly directed at the communication partner. The term should not be shortened to 'partner training' in clinical or formal documents without prior definition.
Usage
Usage note: Clearly distinguish from 'communication strategies training,' which is patient-directed. On first use, write the full term; thereafter CPT is acceptable after definition.
In Context
- "Communication partner training was offered as an optional module within the eight-week group rehabilitation programme." — Rehabilitation programme description
- "Outcome measures should capture benefits to both the hearing aid user and participants who completed communication partner training." — Research protocol