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The active fitting (AF) programme of hearing aids: a psychological perspective.
M Eriksson-Mangold1, A Ringdahl, A K Björklund
1Psychological Department, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
British Journal of Audiology
|August 1, 1990
Summary
A new active fitting (AF) program for hearing aids, including a diary, improved patient satisfaction and hearing aid use. This structured guidance is applicable to most new hearing aid users, regardless of age.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Hearing Health
Background:
- Current hearing rehabilitation in Sweden lacks structured home guidance between appointments.
- Existing methods focus on hearing aid fitting and information over limited visits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an active fitting (AF) program for hearing aids.
- To assess the benefit and applicability of the AF program using a task-oriented diary.
Main Methods:
- A series of studies conducted from 1985 to 1988 involving 128 new hearing aid candidates.
- A controlled study comparing the AF group with standard care.
- Utilized a task-oriented diary titled 'Try Your Hearing Aid'.
Main Results:
- The AF group reported more positive attitudes towards hearing aids and the fitting process after 10 months.
- Patients in the AF group demonstrated increased hearing aid usage and psychological security.
- The AF program proved applicable in routine clinical settings for most new hearing aid patients.
Conclusions:
- The active fitting program significantly enhances hearing aid adoption and user satisfaction.
- Age is not a barrier to participation or benefit from the AF program.
- The successful AF program has been adopted nationwide in Sweden for hearing rehabilitation.