Test-retest reliability of the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly using two administration approaches

Previous investigation with the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly demonstrated high test-retest reliability for face to face/face to face and paper-pencil/paper-pencil administration techniques. From a practical standpoint, a face to face administration followed by a paper-pencil readministration may be a preferable method. The present study evaluated the latter administration approach in a sample of hearing-impaired elderly men. The high test-retest reliability correlations which emerged suggest that the face to face/paper-pencil measurement technique can be adopted for quantifying changes in self-perceived hearing handicap following audiologic intervention especially when clients are unable to return for hearing aid follow-up.