Individualised active communication education (I-ACE): another clinical option for adults with hearing impairment with a focus on problem solving and self-management

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.

Keywords:

• Hearing impairment
• problem solving
• self-management
• communication strategies
• aural rehabilitation
• eHealth

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the participants who took part in this study.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.