Methodological Considerations for Auditory Training Interventions for Adults With Hearing Loss: A Rapid Review

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in older adults.
• Auditory training aims to improve auditory processing and communication.
• Technology-based interventions offer new possibilities for auditory rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and summarize literature on technology-based auditory training for older adults published since 2013.
• To identify the quality of existing research and methodological limitations.
• To provide recommendations for future research in auditory training.

Main Methods:

• A rapid review methodology was employed.
• Searches were conducted in health sciences databases using a PICO framework.
• Inclusion criteria focused on older adults with hearing loss and technology-based auditory training.

Main Results:

• Most studies exhibited low to moderate quality, with significant design and reporting issues.
• Key limitations include lack of blinding, control groups, adequate sample sizes, and long-term follow-up.
• Considerable variability exists in training protocols, participant characteristics, and outcome measures.

Conclusions:

• The current evidence base for the effectiveness of auditory training is inconclusive.
• Future research should prioritize high-quality randomized controlled trials with diverse populations.
• Long-term outcome assessment and standardized methodologies are crucial for advancing the field.