The barriers towards the uptake and retention of hearing aids in the 70+ years population

O'Regan, Amy

The barriers towards the uptake and retention of hearing aids in the 70+ years population

Files

AmyOReganCARLreport2019.pdf(3.91 MB)

Published Version

Date

2019-05-31

Authors

O'Regan, Amy

Publisher

Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork

Abstract

Background: Age-related hearing loss known as ‘presbycusis’ is the third most prevalent chronic health condition affecting older adults. The most suitable treatment option available is amplification using hearing aids, however the uptake and retention of the device is considerably low. Research has been conducted previously on the factors preventing the uptake and retention of hearing aids but not within an Irish based context or for a particular age group. Research Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the patient-centred barriers preventing the uptake and retention of hearing aids for members of the Cork Deaf Association (CDA) who were 70+ years of age. It was conducted in co-operation with Community Based Academic Research Link (CARL) initiative in University College Cork (UCC). CARL facilities scientific research collaboration with local community organisations. The community group chosen for this project was the Cork Deaf Association. Methods: The study was a survey-based pilot study. A mixed-methods research design was used to collect the data. The data was gathered using a questionnaire that was disturbed to 26 members of the CDA. The quantitative research findings were represented using statistical analysis. The qualitative data was analysed using a latent thematic approach. Results: 16 members of the CDA responded to the questionnaire. The results indicated that all of the participants who wore hearing aids reported that they improved their quality of life. However, a number of common issues emerged such as discomfort from hearing aid earmolds, difficulty using the telephone with hearing aids and general displeasure when positioning and removing the hearing aid. Conclusion: The findings indicate the need for further counselling to ensure effective use of hearing aids, a stronger patient-centred relationship with the Audiologist and a wider availability of information to avoid common problems arising.

Keywords

Hearing aids , 70+ years , Age-related hearing loss , Presbycusis , Chronic health condition , Amplification , Patient-centred barriers

Citation

O’Regan, A. (2019) The barriers towards the uptake and retention of hearing aids in the 70+ years population. Cork: Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork.