Design Considerations for Internet-Delivered Self-Management Programs for Adults With Hearing Impairment

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Hearing impairment (HI) is a chronic condition requiring ongoing self-management.
• Residual activity limitations and participation restrictions persist even after treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review components of effective Internet-based self-management programs.
• Evaluate group auditory rehabilitation (AR) programs to inform future online program design.

Main Methods:

• Calculated effect sizes for HI-specific quality of life changes from four group AR studies.
• Analyzed group activities' impact on outcomes within a self-management framework.

Main Results:

• Successful AR activities include psychosocial support, education via lectures/discussion, communication strategy training, and involving communication partners.
• Key elements promote role/emotional management, social support, education, self-efficacy, and self-tailoring.

Conclusions:

• Future Internet-based self-management programs should prioritize social support and education.
• Further research is needed to assess the online feasibility of these AR activities.