Audiological outcomes for adults with mild hearing impairment: A pilot study

Abstract

This pilot study examined the clinical profiles and outcomes of adults with mild hearing impairment (MHI). Adults with MHI who consulted for services were recruited into this study. Twenty-five participants did not elect to pursue hearing aids, and 25 participants did. Demographic, audiometric, and self-report tools were used to compare the groups and to measure clinical outcomes for the hearing aid adopters. Results of this study show that self-rating of hearing ability, importance for change, and better ear high-frequency hearing best classified the hearing aid adopters from the non-adopters. Results also showed that adults with MHI in this sample benefitted from using hearing aids. The implication of these findings provides guidance in clinical decision making for clinicians working with adults with MHI.

Keywords:

• Hearing aids
• Mild hearing impairment
• Outcomes
• Self-report
• Satisfaction with hearing aids
• Speech in noise