Study protocol: feasibility of a hearing program in primary care for underserved older adults

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Audiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Age-related hearing loss is common, often overlooked, and undertreated.
• Hearing impairment significantly impacts communication and overall well-being in older adults.
• Traditional audiology pathways present accessibility challenges, especially for underserved and marginalized populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a primary care-based hearing program for older adults.
• To evaluate the potential of point-of-care counseling to improve hearing care access.
• To inform the design of future efficacy trials for tailored hearing interventions.

Main Methods:

• Convergent mixed methods feasibility study in a geriatric clinic.
• Screening of English/Spanish-speaking adults ≥60 years using tablet-based audiometry and self-report measures.
• Randomization to counseling intervention or usual care, with feasibility outcomes including recruitment, retention, and adherence.

Main Results:

• The study will provide insights into the feasibility of integrated hearing care.
• It will assess recruitment and retention rates for a future efficacy trial.
• Exploration of participant and staff attitudes towards the intervention will be conducted.

Conclusions:

• Primary care-based hearing screening and counseling show promise for improving access for underserved older adults.
• Findings will guide the development of future studies on the impact of these interventions.
• This approach has the potential to enhance patient health and quality of life.