Options for Auditory Training for Adults with Hearing Loss

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Hearing aid technology has advanced, but does not fully compensate for sensory hearing loss.
• Low usage rates and suboptimal satisfaction persist among hearing aid users, especially in noisy environments.
• Auditory training offers a complementary approach to enhance speech perception and device efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore auditory training as a method to improve speech recognition in noise and user satisfaction.
• To review accessible auditory training programs for adults with hearing loss, hearing aids, or cochlear implants.
• To provide resources for healthcare professionals to select appropriate auditory training interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of auditory plasticity and the role of training post-device implantation.
• Identification and description of various auditory training programs.
• Evaluation of web-based and smartphone-accessible training formats.

Main Results:

• Auditory training may facilitate neural reorganization and optimize device performance.
• Numerous auditory training programs exist, with varying features and accessibility.
• Web and mobile platforms offer convenient access to auditory training solutions.

Conclusions:

• Auditory training is a crucial adjunct to hearing devices for maximizing benefits.
• Accessible digital platforms enhance the feasibility of auditory training for a wider population.
• Healthcare providers can leverage program information to guide patient selection of auditory training.