Burden of treatment associated with hearing aid use among older adults with hearing loss: a qualitative study

Treatment burden can affect patients' ability to carry out tasks or follow healthcare providers' recommendations. Evaluating the burden of using and maintaining hearing aids can help identify factors that affect patient compliance. This study also examined the support that older adults receive and prefer to overcome this burden. This enables healthcare providers to better understand the burden and promote improved adherence to hearing aid use among older adults.

We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with older adults recruited from the Audiology Clinic at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC). Participants had been diagnosed with hearing loss and were using hearing aids. Data collection continued until thematic saturation was reached. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

This study included 17 participants aged 62-80 years. Four main themes were identified from the interviews: experiencing hearing loss, barriers to hearing aid use, facilitators to hearing aid use, and support needs. The subtheme highlighted the burden associated with hearing loss and hearing aid use; physical, psychological, and financial burdens were cited, in addition to the perceived limitations of hearing aid use. On the other hand, the perceived benefit of hearing aids in terms of audibility and promoting social engagement was identified as a facilitator to effective use of hearing aids, as they act as motivators. Consistent use of hearing aids was found to help in acclimatization. Professional support for hearing aid use is preferred over family support to promote autonomy. Findings highlight the need for individualized support, improved device features, and accessible hearing healthcare to enhance hearing aid adoption and user satisfaction in older adults.

Our research has identified several factors that affect adherence to hearing aid use in older adults. The barriers identified included physical, psychological and financial burdens. Difficulty with hearing aid use and care was cited as a burden that can limit hearing aid use. Participants in our study preferred support from their healthcare providers over their family. The study highlighted the need for improved support and counselling in hearing healthcare. Furthermore, the study highlighted the need for improved hearing aid technology and for accessible, direct communication channels with their healthcare providers.