How we do it: The Dutch functional hearing-screening tests by telephone and internet.

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Public Health
• Gerontology

Background:

• Hearing loss is a prevalent issue, particularly among older adults.
• Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing age-related hearing impairment.
• Accessible screening methods are needed to reach at-risk populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Dutch National Hearing Test (NHT) as a functional hearing-screening tool.
• To compare the reach of telephone-based versus internet-based versions of the NHT, especially in older demographics.
• To assess the impact of the NHT on subsequent help-seeking behavior for hearing problems.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the Dutch National Hearing Test, an automated adaptive speech-in-noise test using digit-triplets.
• Two versions of the test were implemented: one via telephone and one via the internet.
• Participant outcomes were categorized as 'good,' 'insufficient,' or 'poor,' with recommendations for follow-up.

Main Results:

• The telephone-based NHT demonstrated superior reach among older participants compared to the internet version.
• Over 50% of individuals scoring 'insufficient' or 'poor' on the test pursued professional medical consultation.
• The NHT successfully contributed to identifying and encouraging treatment for older individuals with hearing impairments.

Conclusions:

• The telephone-based Dutch National Hearing Test is a successful and reliable method for functional hearing screening in the general population, particularly older adults.
• The NHT effectively promotes timely audiological care-seeking behavior, leading to increased identification and treatment of hearing loss.
• Implementing accessible screening tools like the NHT is vital for improving public health outcomes related to hearing impairment in aging populations.