Problems with handling the BE10 series hearing aids among elderly people

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Hearing aid use is crucial for individuals with hearing loss.
• Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids require specific dexterity for operation.
• Factors influencing BTE hearing aid handling in new users are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between age, sex, functional disability, and the ability to handle behind-the-ear hearing aids (BE11/12).
• To identify specific BTE hearing aid manipulation tasks that pose challenges for first-time users.

Main Methods:

• Examined 136 first-time hearing aid users.
• Assessed patient ability to perform seven specific tasks related to handling behind-the-ear hearing aids.
• Analyzed the association between task difficulties and patient demographics (age, sex) and functional disability.

Main Results:

• Over 40% of patients struggled with volume control manipulation.
• More than 33% had difficulty inserting the earmould and changing batteries.
• Difficulties with volume control and earmould insertion were significantly linked to functional disability, age, and sex.

Conclusions:

• Older patients (≥75 years) and women experienced greater difficulties handling behind-the-ear hearing aids.
• Functional disability is a significant predictor of challenges in operating hearing aid volume controls and inserting earmoulds.
• Age and sex are important considerations when assessing and supporting new hearing aid users.