Finnish speech in noise test: long-term reproducibility

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Speech-language pathology
• Medical acoustics

Background:

• Assessing speech recognition in noise is crucial for hearing aid fitting and rehabilitation.
• Existing tests may have limitations in efficiency and long-term stability.
• A computerized adaptive test offers potential for improved accuracy and user experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term stability and repeatability of a newly developed computerized adaptive Finnish speech-in-noise test.
• To determine the reliability of speech recognition threshold in noise (SRTN) measurements over an extended postoperative period.

Main Methods:

• A computerized adaptive Finnish speech-in-noise test was utilized.
• 164 stapes surgery patients' non-operated ears were assessed.
• Measurements were taken preoperatively and at 1, 7, and 19 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• Short-term and long-term repeatability of the test were found to be equal.
• The absolute intraindividual differences in SRTN measurements averaged 1.5 dB.
• This indicates high consistency in test results over time.

Conclusions:

• The computerized adaptive Finnish speech-in-noise test demonstrates excellent long-term stability.
• The test provides reliable and repeatable SRTN measurements, suitable for clinical use.
• This tool can aid in accurate hearing assessment and management for Finnish-speaking individuals.