Abstract
Objective: This clinical note describes the Individualised – Active Communication Education (I-ACE) programme designed to improve problem solving and self-management in adults with hearing impairment.
Design: The I-ACE was offered to adult clients seeking help for the first time and effects were measured for participants using self-report questionnaires: the Client Oriented Scale of Improvement (goal attainment), the Hearing Handicap Questionnaire (hearing disability), and the International Outcome Inventory – Alternative Interventions (outcomes) immediately after programme completion and 3 months later. Participants also provided qualitative feedback about I-ACE.
Study sample: Twenty-three participants completed I-ACE, with 22 completing all self-report questionnaires and 23 participants providing qualitative feedback.
Results: The participants reported positive outcomes and goal attainment, but no change in hearing disability post-programme. The effects were maintained 3 months later. Qualitative feedback indicated that I-ACE supported participants in recognising and increasing awareness of their hearing difficulties and in developing potential solutions to these difficulties. Participants also enjoyed the opportunity to involve communication partners.
Conclusion: I-ACE is an appropriate option for adults with hearing impairment who wish to become more aware of their hearing difficulties and how to solve them.
Acknowledgements
The authors thank the participants who took part in this study.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest.