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Bennett RJ, Larsson J, Gotowiec S, Ferguson M. Refinement and Validation of the Empowerment Audiology Questionnaire: Rasch Analysis and Traditional Psychometric Evaluation. Ear Hear 2024; 45:583-599. [PMID: 38082487 PMCID: PMC11008442 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000001449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Empowerment is the process through which individuals with hearing-related challenges acquire and use knowledge, skills and strategies, and increase self-efficacy, participation, and control of their hearing health care, hearing solutions, and everyday lives. The aim was to refine and validate the Empowerment Audiology Questionnaire (EmpAQ), a hearing-specific measure of empowerment. This was achieved through (1) refinement via Rasch analysis (study 1), and (2) traditional psychometric analysis of the final survey structure (study 2). DESIGN In study 1, 307 adult hearing aid owners completed the initial empowerment measure (33 items) online. To inform an intended item reduction, Rasch analysis was used to assess a range of psychometric properties for individual items. The psychometric properties included analysis of individual items (e.g., response dependency, fit to the polytomous Rasch model, threshold ordering) and the whole EmpAQ (e.g., dimensionality). Item reduction resulted in a 15-item version (EmpAQ-15) and a short-form 5-item version (EmpAQ-5), validated using modern (Rasch), and traditional (Classical Test Theory) psychometric analysis (study 2). In study 2, 178 adult hearing aid owners completed the EmpAQ-15 and EmpAQ-5, alongside 5 questionnaires to measure related constructs. These included two hearing-specific questionnaires (Social Participation Restrictions Questionnaire and Self-Assessment of Communication), two general health-related questionnaires (Patient Activation Measure and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0), and a general empowerment questionnaire (Health Care Empowerment Questionnaire). Modern (Rasch) and traditional psychometric analysis techniques (internal consistency, construct validity, and criterion validity) were used to assess the psychometric properties of the EmpAQ-15 and EmpAQ-5. RESULTS Rasch analysis of the initial 33-item measure of empowerment identified 18 items with high response dependency, poor fit to the Rasch model, and threshold disordering, which were removed, resulting in a long-form (EmpAQ-15) hearing-specific measure of empowerment. A short-form (EmpAQ-5) version was developed for use in the clinic setting. Validation of the two EmpAQ measures using Rasch analysis showed good item fit to the Rasch model, appropriate threshold targeting, and the existence of unidimensionality. Traditional psychometric evaluation showed that both questionnaires had high internal consistency and positive correlations with the hearing-specific questionnaires. However, in contrast with our hypotheses, correlations with general health questionnaires were stronger than with hearing-specific questionnaires; all questionnaires were correlated with the EmpAQ and in the direction hypothesized. Taken together, these findings support the construct validity of the EmpAQ-15 and EmpAQ-5. CONCLUSIONS The EmpAQ-15 and EmpAQ-5 are the first self-report measures to be developed specifically for the measurement of empowerment. The EmpAQ-15 and EmpAQ-5 were found to meet the Rasch model criteria for interval-level measurements. Traditional psychometric evaluation supports the construct validity of both measures. The EmpAQ measures have the potential to be used in both research and clinical practice to evaluate empowerment along the hearing journey. The next stage of this research will be to further validate these measures by assessing their responsiveness, minimal clinically important difference, and clinical interpretability in a clinical population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Bennett
- Brain and Hearing, Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- Curtin enAble Institute, Curtin enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Melanie Ferguson
- Curtin enAble Institute, Curtin enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Gotowiec S, Bennett RJ, Larsson J, Ferguson M. Development of a self-report measure of empowerment along the hearing health journey: a content evaluation study. Int J Audiol 2024; 63:275-285. [PMID: 36794384 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2023.2174456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct the first phases in the development of a self-report measure of empowerment on the hearing health journey, specifically, item generation and content evaluation of the initial pool of items generated. DESIGN A content expert panel survey and cognitive interviews were conducted. Descriptive statistics were obtained for the quantitative data, and the cognitive interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. STUDY SAMPLE Eleven researchers and clinicians participated in the content expert surveys. Sixteen experienced hearing aid users participated in the cognitive interviews, recruited from the USA and Australia. RESULTS The items underwent five iterations based on feedback from the survey and interview data. This resulted in a set of 33 quality-tested potential survey items that were rated highly for relevance (mean = 3.96), clarity (mean = 3.70) and fit to dimensions of empowerment (mean = 3.92) (scale 0-4, where 4 was the maximum rating). CONCLUSIONS Involving stakeholders in item generation and content evaluation increased relevance, clarity, fit to dimension, comprehensiveness, and acceptability of the items. This preliminary version of the 33-item measure underwent further psychometric refinement (Rasch analysis and traditional classical test theory testing) to validate it for clinical and research use (reported separately).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Melanie Ferguson
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Thulin A, Kähäri K, Malmberg M. The development and evaluation of an online hearing loss prevention program. Prev Med Rep 2023; 35:102298. [PMID: 37455754 PMCID: PMC10338358 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies underline the need for research on approaches to encouraging healthy listening habits. This study aims to develop and evaluate an online hearing loss prevention program; and examine its influence on the participants' use of hearing protection, hearing loss prevention knowledge, attitude towards noise, and program useability and adherence. The study was conducted in the county of Västra Götaland, Sweden, from March through October 2021. The program included four modules focused on hearing and hearing loss prevention and was accessible to the participants for four weeks. In total, 75 participants completed the program which was evaluated using the Youth Attitude to Noise Scale and four additional self-designed questionnaires. The questionnaires were deployed before and immediately after program completion. The findings indicate that the program may influence the participants' attitudes toward noise and the use of hearing protection. The participants who completed the program perceived high useability and increased hearing loss prevention knowledge. This program is most needed to promote healthy hearing. Future studies should target specific groups with this program and evaluate its long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Thulin
- Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Hearing Organization, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kim Kähäri
- Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Hearing Organization, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Milijana Malmberg
- Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Hearing Organization, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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Ferguson MA, Eikelboom RH, Sucher CM, Maidment DW, Bennett RJ. Remote Technologies to Enhance Service Delivery for Adults: Clinical Research Perspectives. Semin Hear 2023; 44:328-350. [PMID: 37484990 PMCID: PMC10361795 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There are many examples of remote technologies that are clinically effective and provide numerous benefits to adults with hearing loss. Despite this, the uptake of remote technologies for hearing healthcare has been both low and slow until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been a key driver for change globally. The time is now right to take advantage of the many benefits that remote technologies offer, through clinical, consumer, or hybrid services and channels. These include greater access and choice, better interactivity and engagement, and tailoring of technologies to individual needs, leading to clients who are better informed, enabled, and empowered to self-manage their hearing loss. This article provides an overview of the clinical research evidence-base across a range of remote technologies along the hearing health journey. This includes qualitative, as well as quantitative, methods to ensure the end-users' voice is at the core of the research, thereby promoting person-centered principles. Most of these remote technologies are available and some are already in use, albeit not widespread. Finally, whenever new technologies or processes are implemented into services, be they clinical, hybrid, or consumer, careful consideration needs to be given to the required behavior change of the key people (e.g., clients and service providers) to facilitate and optimize implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A. Ferguson
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Robert H. Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Cathy M. Sucher
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - David W. Maidment
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J. Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Couth S, Loughran MT, Plack CJ, Moore DR, Munro KJ, Ginsborg J, Dawes P, Armitage CJ. Identifying barriers and facilitators of hearing protection use in early-career musicians: a basis for designing interventions to promote uptake and sustained use. Int J Audiol 2022; 61:463-472. [PMID: 34406107 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1951852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to: i) determine the patterns of hearing protection device (HPD) use in early-career musicians, ii) identify barriers to and facilitators of HPD use, and iii) use the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to develop an intervention to increase uptake and sustained use of HPDs. DESIGN A mixed-methods approach using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. STUDY SAMPLE Eighty early-career musicians (age range = 18-26 years; women n = 39), across all categories of musical instrument. RESULTS 42.5% percent of participants reported using HPDs at least once a week, 35% less than once a week, and 22.5% reported never using HPDs for music-related activities. Six barriers and four facilitators of HPD use were identified. Barriers include the impact of HPDs on listening to music and performing, and a lack of concern about noise exposure. Barriers/facilitators were mapped onto the Theoretical Domains Framework. Following the systematic process of the BCW, our proposed intervention strategies are based on 'Environmental Restructuring', such as providing prompts to increase awareness of noisy settings, and 'Persuasion/Modelling', such as providing credible role models. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the use of the BCW for designing interventions in the context of hearing conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Couth
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael T Loughran
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher J Plack
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - David R Moore
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Communication Sciences Research Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kevin J Munro
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Piers Dawes
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Linguistics, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christopher J Armitage
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Karah H, Karawani H. Auditory Perceptual Exercises in Adults Adapting to the Use of Hearing Aids. Front Psychol 2022; 13:832100. [PMID: 35664209 PMCID: PMC9158114 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.832100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Older adults with age-related hearing loss often use hearing aids (HAs) to compensate. However, certain challenges in speech perception, especially in noise still exist, despite today's HA technology. The current study presents an evaluation of a home-based auditory exercises program that can be used during the adaptation process for HA use. The home-based program was developed at a time when telemedicine became prominent in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study included 53 older adults with age-related symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss. They were divided into three groups depending on their experience using HAs. Group 1: Experienced users (participants who used bilateral HAs for at least 2 years). Group 2: New users (participants who were fitted with bilateral HAs for the first time). Group 3: Non-users. These three groups underwent auditory exercises for 3 weeks. The auditory tasks included auditory detection, auditory discrimination, and auditory identification, as well as comprehension with basic (syllables) and more complex (sentences) stimuli, presented in quiet and in noisy listening conditions. All participants completed self-assessment questionnaires before and after the auditory exercises program and underwent a cognitive test at the end. Self-assessed improvements in hearing ability were observed across the HA users groups, with significant changes described by new users. Overall, speech perception in noise was poorer than in quiet. Speech perception accuracy was poorer in the non-users group compared to the users in all tasks. In sessions where stimuli were presented in quiet, similar performance was observed among new and experienced uses. New users performed significantly better than non-users in all speech in noise tasks; however, compared to the experienced users, performance differences depended on task difficulty. The findings indicate that HA users, even new users, had better perceptual performance than their peers who did not receive hearing aids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanin Karawani
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Chen CH, Lin HYH, Wang MC, Chu YC, Chang CY, Huang CY, Cheng YF. Diagnostic Accuracy of Smartphone-Based Audiometry for Hearing Loss Detection: Meta-analysis. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e28378. [PMID: 34515644 PMCID: PMC8477297 DOI: 10.2196/28378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hearing loss is one of the most common disabilities worldwide and affects both individual and public health. Pure tone audiometry (PTA) is the gold standard for hearing assessment, but it is often not available in many settings, given its high cost and demand for human resources. Smartphone-based audiometry may be equally effective and can improve access to adequate hearing evaluations. Objective The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize the current evidence of the role of smartphone-based audiometry in hearing assessments and further explore the factors that influence its diagnostic accuracy. Methods Five databases—PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus—were queried to identify original studies that examined the diagnostic accuracy of hearing loss measurement using smartphone-based devices with conventional PTA as a reference test. A bivariate random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled sensitivity and specificity. The factors associated with diagnostic accuracy were identified using a bivariate meta-regression model. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. Results In all, 25 studies with a total of 4470 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The overall sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for smartphone-based audiometry were 89% (95% CI 83%-93%), 93% (95% CI 87%-97%), and 0.96 (95% CI 0.93-0.97), respectively; the corresponding values for the smartphone-based speech recognition test were 91% (95% CI 86%-94%), 88% (95% CI 75%-94%), and 0.93 (95% CI 0.90-0.95), respectively. Meta-regression analysis revealed that patient age, equipment used, and the presence of soundproof booths were significantly related to diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions We have presented comprehensive evidence regarding the effectiveness of smartphone-based tests in diagnosing hearing loss. Smartphone-based audiometry may serve as an accurate and accessible approach to hearing evaluations, especially in settings where conventional PTA is unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Hao Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Heng-Yu Haley Lin
- Department of Medical Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Che Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Chia Chu
- Information Management Office, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Medical AI Development Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Information Management, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yu Chang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chii-Yuan Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Fu Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
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Bennett RJ, Eikelboom RH, Sucher CM, Ferguson M, Saunders GH. Barriers and facilitators to delivery of group audiological rehabilitation programs: a survey based on the COM-B model. Int J Audiol 2021; 61:130-139. [PMID: 34120559 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1928304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To canvas the views of Australia-based hearing healthcare clinicians regarding group audiological rehabilitation practices. DESIGN A national cross-sectional self-report survey. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. STUDY SAMPLE Sixty-two Australia-based hearing healthcare clinicians, with experience working in an adult rehabilitation setting. RESULTS Clinicians appeared to positively view the provision of group audiological rehabilitation services, yet were limited in their ability to deliver these services due to organisational barriers. Although some organisational barriers were non-modifiable by the clinician (such as group AR services not prioritised within their workplace, a lack of support from colleagues/managers, lack of resources, and a lack of funding for the delivery of group AR services), others were within the clinicians' ability to change (such as habit formation for recommending these services during clinical appointments). Participants expressed a desire for resources to assist them in delivering group AR, including downloadable lesson plans and information sheets for clients, clinician training videos and client educational videos. Clinicians called for increased diversity in program offerings, specifically relating to the emotional, relational and social impacts of hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a framework for the development of interventional studies to increase the utilisation of group audiological rehabilitation services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Cathy M Sucher
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Melanie Ferguson
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gabrielle H Saunders
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Gotowiec S, Larsson J, Incerti P, Young T, Smeds K, Wolters F, Herrlin P, Ferguson M. Understanding patient empowerment along the hearing health journey. Int J Audiol 2021; 61:148-158. [PMID: 34032531 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1915509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Related to the hearing health journey, this study aimed to: (i) explore how empowerment manifests itself from individuals' first awareness of hearing loss through to hearing aid fitting and then to becoming an active hearing aid user, (ii) identify points when the different dimensions of empowerment are most relevant, and (iii) conceptualise empowerment. DESIGN A semi-structured interview study was conducted, followed by a template analysis of the data. STUDY SAMPLE Adult hearing aid users from Sweden (n = 8) and Australia (n = 10) who had worn hearing aids for between 6 and 36 months. RESULTS The themes that emerged from the transcripts were knowledge, skills and strategies, participation, self-efficacy, and control. CONCLUSIONS This study conceptualises empowerment along the hearing health journey as the process through which individuals with hearing-related challenges acquire and use knowledge, skills, and strategies, and increase self-efficacy, participation, and the feeling of control of their hearing health care, hearing solutions, and everyday lives. There are not specific points along the hearing health journey where any dimension is uniquely relevant, instead, each dimension is a dynamic component at all stages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Taegan Young
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Maidment DW, Wege TE. The association between non-communicable disease and hearing aid adoption in older adults with hearing loss. Int J Audiol 2021; 61:220-227. [PMID: 33870834 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1910740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To assess whether specific non-communicable diseases are associated with hearing aid adoption in older adults with hearing loss.Design: A cross-sectional, observational study.Study sample: Data was obtained from one of the largest pharmacy-led health and beauty retailers in the United Kingdom. In total, 17,172 older adults were included.Results: Greater odds of adopting hearing aids were associated with being older (Odds ratio [OR] = 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02, 1.03), having fewer self-reported hearing difficulties (OR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.58, 0.64), and greater audiometric hearing loss (OR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.54, 1.83). The odds of adopting hearing aids were lower if individuals self-reported hypertension (OR = 0.87; 95% CI = 0.79, 0.97) and diabetes (OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.72, 0.95). Using a decision tree model, self-reported hearing difficulties, audiometric hearing loss, and age were the best combination of variables to differentiate between individuals that did and did not adopt hearing aids.Conclusions: This study demonstrates that hearing aid adoption is lower in older adults with cardiovascular disease risk factors. Thus, there is a need for healthcare professionals to identify older adults living with hearing loss and cardiovascular ill-health, ensuring that they receive appropriate patient-centred support to manage their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Maidment
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - T E Wege
- Mathematics Education Centre, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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Ferguson MA, Maidment DW, Gomez R, Coulson N, Wharrad H. The feasibility of an m-health educational programme (m2Hear) to improve outcomes in first-time hearing aid users. Int J Audiol 2021; 60:S30-S41. [PMID: 33135503 PMCID: PMC8300526 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1825839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To (i) assess the delivery, accessibility, usability, acceptability, and adherence, and (ii) identify suitable outcome measures, for a mobile-enhanced multimedia educational programme (m2Hear) in first-time hearing aid users. DESIGN A prospective, single-centre feasibility study. STUDY SAMPLE First-time hearing aid users (n = 59), recruited at their initial hearing assessment. Evaluations were made at 1-week and at 10-12 weeks post-hearing aid fitting. RESULTS m2Hear was most commonly accessed via tablets (42.3%). Usability was high for the System Usability Scale (88.5%), and the uMARS, particularly for the Information (M = 4.7), Functionality (M = 4.5) and Aesthetics (M = 4.2) subscales (maximum score = 5). Participant feedback was positive, with a high percent agreeing that m2Hear aided understanding of hearing aids (98%), held their interest (86%), improved confidence to use hearing aids and communicate (84%), and provided additional information to audiologist's advice (82%). Learnings about practical hearing aid handling/maintenance skills and how to communicate with others were reportedly used equally in participant's everyday lives. m2Hear was convenient to use, clear, concise and comprehensive. Outcome measures of social participation resulted in large effect sizes (Cohen's d > 1.6). CONCLUSIONS A theoretically-driven, personalised and co-designed educational m-health intervention is feasible and beneficial for use in the self-management of hearing loss and hearing aids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A. Ferguson
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Hearing Sciences Section, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Australian Hearing Hub, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - David W. Maidment
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Hearing Sciences Section, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Rachel Gomez
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Neil Coulson
- Division of Rehabilitation, Ageing and Wellbeing, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Heather Wharrad
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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12
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Timmer BHB, Launer S, Hickson L. Using smartphone technology to support the adult audiologic rehabilitation journey. Int J Audiol 2020; 60:S61-S67. [PMID: 33269631 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1854483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although the availability of mobile device applications (apps) to support people with hearing impairment is rapidly increasing, there are few reports of the use of such apps by the target population. The aim of this paper is to describe research that has applied apps at various stages of the adult rehabilitation journey. DESIGN A summary of studies utilising apps to investigate (1) the hearing difficulties and acoustic environments of adults with mild hearing impairment, (2) hearing aid benefit in this population and (3) useability of an app to guide hearing aid handling tasks. STUDY SAMPLE Older adults with no previous experience with hearing aids, who owned a smartphone or tablet and were confident in using apps. Participant samples ranged from 10 (hearing aid benefit pilot study, mean age = 70 years) to 30 participants (app useability study, mean age = 69 years). RESULTS All studies showed that smartphone apps can provide real-world insights during the early stages of the patient journey and hearing aid management support during the latter stages. App useability was rated positively by participants. CONCLUSION Smartphone apps may be used as a feasible complement to face-to-face interaction in audiology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbra H B Timmer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Sonova AG, Stafa, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Launer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Sonova AG, Stafa, Switzerland
| | - Louise Hickson
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Bennett RJ, Barr C, Montano J, Eikelboom RH, Saunders GH, Pronk M, Preminger JE, Ferguson M, Weinstein B, Heffernan E, van Leeuwen L, Hickson L, Timmer BHB, Singh G, Gerace D, Cortis A, Bellekom SR. Identifying the approaches used by audiologists to address the psychosocial needs of their adult clients. Int J Audiol 2020; 60:104-114. [PMID: 32940093 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1817995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the approaches taken by audiologists to address their adult clients' psychosocial needs related to hearing loss. DESIGN A participatory mixed methods design. Participants generated statements describing the ways in which the psychosocial needs of their adult clients with hearing loss are addressed, and then grouped the statements into themes. Data were obtained using face-to-face and online structured questions. Concept mapping techniques were used to identify key concepts and to map each of the concepts relative to each other. STUDY SAMPLE An international sample of 65 audiologists. RESULTS Ninety-three statements were generated and grouped into seven conceptual clusters: Client Empowerment; Use of Strategies and Training to Personalise the Rehabilitation Program; Facilitating Peer and Other Professional Support; Providing Emotional Support; Improving Social Engagement with Technology; Including Communication Partners; and Promoting Client Responsibility. CONCLUSIONS Audiologists employ a wide range of approaches in their attempt to address the psychosocial needs associated with hearing loss experienced by their adult clients. The approaches described were mostly informal and provided in a non-standardised way. The majority of approaches described were not evidence-based, despite the availability of several options that are evidence-based, thus highlighting the implementation gap between research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Caitlin Barr
- Soundfair, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Australia
| | | | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gabrielle H Saunders
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Marieke Pronk
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jill E Preminger
- Program in Audiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Eithne Heffernan
- Discipline of General Practice, Clinical Science Institute, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Lisette van Leeuwen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louise Hickson
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Barbra H B Timmer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,Sonova AG, Staefa, Switzerland
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Sonova AG, Staefa, Switzerland.,Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel Gerace
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Alex Cortis
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Sandra R Bellekom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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Maidment DW, Coulson NS, Wharrad H, Taylor M, Ferguson MA. The development of an mHealth educational intervention for first-time hearing aid users: combining theoretical and ecologically valid approaches. Int J Audiol 2020; 59:492-500. [DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1755063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David W. Maidment
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Hearing Sciences Section, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Neil S. Coulson
- Division of Rehabilitation, Ageing and Wellbeing, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Heather Wharrad
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Michael Taylor
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Melanie A. Ferguson
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Sydney, Australia
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