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Analysis of Hearing Instrument Use, Satisfaction, and Operation in Independent Elderly Male Veterans
Brett Kemker
Holly Kaplan
Lisa Scott
Brett E. Kemker*, Holly Kaplan1 and Lisa Scott2
*University of Southern Mississippi; 1University of Georgia, 2Florida State University
(Submitted for review to A J A)
Abstract
Purpose: This study examines whether relationships exist between self-reported hearing instrument use and self-reported satisfaction with objective measures of hearing instrument operation, at both the initial fitting and one year post-fitting.
Methods: This correlational study examines relationships between ease of hearing aid manipulation, hours of use and self-reported satisfaction with the fitting. At the fitting and one year post-fitting, twenty elderly veterans with binaural sensorineural hearing loss operated the components of a hearing instrument while being timed; following the Hearing Instrument Operation Checklist (HIOC). A questionnaire regarding hours of use and user satisfaction was given at each visit.
Results: Significant findings include a strong positive correlation between individuals’ estimates of use immediately post-fitting with estimates one year later; a moderate inverse correlation between the estimates of use immediately post-fitting with operation speed one year later; and, a moderate correlation between the estimates of use and satisfaction one year post-fitting.
Conclusions: Results emphasize the need for audiologic rehabilitation protocols encouraging immediate post-fitting continuous hearing instrument use. Areas for further investigation, e.g. manipulation of digital programs, age of the subject, and the effects of intensive pre and/or initial hearing aid use counseling are discussed.