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Evaluation of a communication course for new hearing aid users
M Norman1, C R George, A Downie
1MRC Institute of Hearing Research, Royal South Hants Hospital, Southampton, England.
Scandinavian Audiology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
A new communication course for hearing aid users was developed and tested. While participants were satisfied and felt better equipped to cope with hearing loss, the course did not significantly improve hearing aid usage or benefit ratings compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Hearing loss affects a significant portion of the adult population.
- Effective communication strategies and coping mechanisms are crucial for hearing aid users.
- Existing support for new hearing aid users may be insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a communication course for new hearing aid users.
- To assess the course's impact on user satisfaction, understanding of hearing loss, and coping strategies.
- To determine if the course influences hearing aid usage and perceived benefit.
Main Methods:
- A 3-session (2 hours each) communication course was designed.
- The course included information on hearing loss, hearing aids, communication tactics, lipreading, and relaxation.
- Participants (n=87) fitted with NHS hearing aids were evaluated using pre- and post-fitting questionnaires, compared to a matched control group.
Main Results:
- All participants completing the evaluation were satisfied with the course content, length, pace, and presentation.
- Most participants felt the course helped them understand and cope with hearing loss.
- Despite increased self-reported intention to use aids more, objective aid usage and benefit ratings did not differ significantly from the control group.
Conclusions:
- The communication course is well-received by new hearing aid users and enhances their confidence in managing hearing loss.
- The course effectively improves participants' understanding and coping strategies.
- The study did not find a statistically significant improvement in hearing aid usage or benefit ratings compared to a control group, suggesting further research into long-term effects or course modifications may be needed.