The Experience of a First Hearing Aid Fitting: Perspectives From Adults With Hearing Loss, Their Relatives, and...

This study is the first step in a project aimed at developing an intervention program for new hearing aid (HA) users and their relatives in the Province of Quebec, Canada. The objectives were to describe the experience of a first HA fitting from the perspective of adults with hearing loss and their relatives, to identify facilitators and barriers to the fitting process, and to identify elements that should be included in an intervention program to support HA adoption and use. Satisfaction regarding HAs and fitting services was also assessed after fitting.

A mixed-methods design combining qualitative and quantitative data sources was used. Interviews were conducted with 10 new HA users, seven relatives, and 10 hearing care professionals. HA users also completed a questionnaire to assess their satisfaction with HAs and services after fitting. A qualitative content analysis was done on the data obtained from the interviews, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze data on satisfaction.

Identified facilitators and barriers to HA fitting for new users were related to professional services, HAs, relatives, and personal factors. Elements for inclusion in the intervention program were categorized into two groups: information to provide and support to offer. Participants reported a high satisfaction level with HAs (M = 87.6 ± 7.5%).

Several factors can influence the success of a first HA fitting, including aspects related to technology, professional services, and psychosocial elements. Participants suggested important components to include in the intervention for first-time fittings. These results will be used to develop an intervention program for new HA users and their relatives.

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.30235315.