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Disabilities and handicaps associated with impaired auditory localization
W Noble1, K Ter-Horst, D Byrne
1Department of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
|March 1, 1995
Summary
People with hearing loss experience significant sound localization disabilities, especially with distance. Hearing aids improve both sound localization and speech understanding, reducing disadvantages like confusion and concentration loss.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Hearing Science
- Psychoacoustics
Background:
- Sound localization is crucial for spatial awareness and communication.
- Hearing loss, particularly symmetrical hearing loss, can impair sound localization abilities.
- The impact of localization disabilities on daily life and the benefits of hearing aids require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess sound localization disabilities and handicaps in individuals with symmetrical hearing loss.
- To evaluate the correlation between sound localization and speech hearing abilities.
- To determine the effectiveness of hearing aids in improving sound localization and speech understanding.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 104 participants with symmetrical hearing loss.
- Participants reported on sound localization and speech hearing difficulties with and without hearing aids.
- Unaided localization abilities were compared to a control group without hearing loss.
Main Results:
- Hearing-impaired individuals reported significantly poorer unaided sound localization than controls, especially for distance discrimination.
- While daily activity limitations were minor, participants experienced confusion, concentration loss, and a desire to avoid certain settings due to localization issues.
- A moderate correlation was found between sound localization and speech hearing, independent of hearing level.
- Wearing hearing aids, either monaurally or binaurally, led to significant improvements in both localization and speech hearing.
Conclusions:
- Symmetrical hearing loss leads to notable sound localization disabilities and associated disadvantages, impacting daily life.
- Hearing aids offer substantial benefits, improving both sound localization and speech understanding for individuals with hearing loss.
- Addressing sound localization deficits through audiological rehabilitation, including hearing aid use, is essential for enhancing quality of life.