Part of a larger survey on hearing aid outcomes and experiences, this US-based study explores meaningful life changes due to hearing aid use in adults, with the aim of contributing to and improving all aspects of aural rehabilitation for this distinct group. Most responses were positive. Two broad domains were identified: the benefits and challenges of hearing aid use, labelled and themed by the authors as meaningful benefits and remaining difficulties. It is noteworthy that most participants reported both positives and negatives in their survey responses – perhaps reflecting the lived experience of many hearing aid wearers, which is shaped by communication partners, listening fatigue and the quality of the listening environment. Key meaningful benefits included improved relationships, increased social inclusion and enhanced mental wellbeing. Other reported improvements involved hearing and speech comprehension, better use of media and environmental cues, and personal benefits such as a greater sense of independence, enhanced occupational functioning and overall quality of life. Participants also highlighted the value of connectivity, particularly in enabling media streaming and integration with digital devices. Situational benefits were noted, such as enhanced participation in social gatherings and improved communication in noisy environments. Remaining difficulties included the fragility of the devices, physical discomfort, poor sound quality and maintenance issues. Persistent challenges were also reported with speech clarity, understanding certain voices and media listening. Specific listening environments – especially noisy settings – continued to pose problems, sometimes leading to social withdrawal due to communication barriers. Personal and emotional challenges were identified, including device discomfort, health concerns and unrealistic expectations from others. The experience of hearing aid use is multifactorial. While many respondents reported transformative benefits, persistent challenges remain. The authors advocate for a holistic approach to hearing rehabilitation – one that integrates technological, social and emotional support to enhance user outcomes as part of the rehabilitation process.
Meaningful life changes following hearing aid use: a qualitative user perspective
Reviewed by Charlotte Rogers
Meaningful life changes following hearing aid use: a qualitative user perspective.
CONTRIBUTOR
Charlotte Rogers
BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology), Allied Health Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester.
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