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Nickbakht M, Ekberg K, Waite M, Scarinci N, Timmer B, Meyer C, Hickson L. The experience of stigma related to hearing loss and hearing aids: perspectives of adults with hearing loss, their families, and hearing care professionals. Int J Audiol 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38824458 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2024.2353862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore when and how stigma-induced identity threat is experienced by adults with hearing loss (HL) and their family members (affiliate stigma) from the perspectives of adults with HL, their family members, and hearing care professionals. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive methodology with semi-structured interviews. STUDY SAMPLE Adults with acquired HL (n = 20), their nominated family members (n = 20), and hearing care professionals (n = 25). RESULTS All groups of participants believed that both HL and hearing aids were associated with stigma for adults with HL. Two themes were identified, specifically: (1) an association between HL and hearing aids and the stereotypes of ageing, disability, and difference; and (2) varied views on the existence and experience of stigma for adults with HL. Hearing care professionals focused on the stigma of hearing aids more than HL, whereas adult participants focused on stigma of HL. Family member data indicated that they experienced little affiliate stigma. CONCLUSIONS Stigma-induced identity threat related to HL and, to a lesser extent, hearing aids exists for adults with HL. Shared perceptions that associate HL and hearing aids with ageing stereotypes were reported to contribute to the identity threat, as were some situational cues and personal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Nickbakht
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Katie Ekberg
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Monique Waite
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Nerina Scarinci
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Barbra Timmer
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
- Sonova AG, Stäfa, Switzerland
| | - Carly Meyer
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Louise Hickson
- Centre for Hearing Research, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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Tsimpida D, Rajasingam S, Panagioti M, Henshaw H. The leaky pipeline of hearing care: primary to secondary care evidence from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Int J Audiol 2024; 63:349-357. [PMID: 36951175 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2023.2186814] [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: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The proportions of older adults' transitions through acknowledging their hearing loss to getting access to treatment are unknown. This was examined using data from a nationally representative cohort in England. DESIGN Patient and healthcare factors associated with referrals were examined cross-sectionally, through primary to secondary care. Non-report predictors identified using multiple logistic regression models. STUDY SAMPLE 8529 adults with hearing data in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Wave 7. RESULTS Nearly 40% of those with acknowledged hearing loss did not tell a doctor or nurse (n = 857/2249). Women (OR 2.68, 95% CI 2.14-2.98), retirees (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.17-1.44), those with foreign education (OR 2.74, 95% CI 2.47-3.04), lower education (OR 2.86, 95% CI 2.58-3.18), smokers (OR 4.39, 95% CI 3.95-4.87), and heavy drinkers (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.58-1.85) were more likely to not report hearing loss. Of those who acknowledged and reported hearing difficulties, willingness to try hearing aid(s) was high (78.9%). CONCLUSIONS Unacknowledged, or acknowledged but not reported hearing loss by individuals, and non-referrals by primary healthcare professionals, are barriers to accessing hearing healthcare. Future research should report hearing aid use as the proportion of individuals who acknowledge their hearing loss, to avoid an overestimation of the non-use of hearing aids within study samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dialechti Tsimpida
- Department of Public Health, Policy & Systems, Institute of Population Health, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Saima Rajasingam
- School of Psychology & Sport Sciences (Vision & Hearing) Cambridge Campus, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Maria Panagioti
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre (PSTRC), School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Helen Henshaw
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Bleckly F, Matthews N, Lo CY. Identity change of late-deafened adults after receiving cochlear implants. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:1463-1472. [PMID: 37074730 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2023.2198565] [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: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this research was to understand how adults reconceptualise their identity when experiencing hearing loss as an adult, and how their identity might change with a cochlear implant. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using an online survey administered through cochlear implant social media groups, with follow-up semi-structured interviews, participants answered questions about their hearing loss and cochlear implant experiences. Forty-four people answered the survey and 16 participated in an in-depth interview. All were older than 18 years, once had heard, became deafened in adulthood and had at least one cochlear implant. RESULTS The decision to have a cochlear implant often meant acknowledging they were no longer a hearing person. After having an implant four themes emerged. (1) Some participants maintained a hearing identity through hearing loss and after cochlear implantation, while others returned to their hearing identity. (2) Others acknowledged a confused identity, neither deaf nor hearing. In unexpected findings, (3) during the progression of hearing loss, some participants had identified as hearing but could not hear, however after implantation, they became deaf people who could hear. (4) Furthermore, after implantation, some participants identified as disabled when they had not done so when less able to hear. CONCLUSION Given the prevalence of hearing loss in later life, it is important to understand the way these adults understand their identity through the progression of hearing loss and after becoming cochlear implant recipients. The belief people have of themselves impacts healthcare choices and affects their commitment to ongoing rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Bleckly
- Department of Media, Communications, Creative Arts, Language, and Literature, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Matthews
- Department of Media, Communications, Creative Arts, Language, and Literature, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chi Yhun Lo
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Linguistics, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Prieur Chaintré A, Couturier Y, Nguyen TT, Levasseur M. Influence of Hearing Loss on Social Participation in Older Adults: Results From a Scoping Review. Res Aging 2024; 46:72-90. [PMID: 37157996 PMCID: PMC10666503 DOI: 10.1177/01640275231174561] [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] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the influence of hearing loss on social participation in older adults and including its facilitators and barriers. Following the rigorous methodological framework of scoping studies, nine multidisciplinary databases were searched with 44 keywords. Published mainly in the last decade, 41 studies using primarily a quantitative cross-sectional design were selected. Older adults with hearing loss have been found to have difficulty maintaining relationships and social activities. While social support and engaged-coping strategies were major facilitators of social participation, barriers included greater hearing loss, communication difficulties, comorbidities and reduced mental health. To better promote the social participation of older adults, early detection of hearing loss, holistic assessment, and interprofessional collaboration must be considered. Future research is necessary to better address the stigma related to hearing loss in older adults and challenges of early detection, and to propose innovative solutions to develop interprofessional collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Prieur Chaintré
- Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center on Aging, Health and Social Services Centre, University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yves Couturier
- Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - T.H. Trang Nguyen
- Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center on Aging, Health and Social Services Centre, University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mélanie Levasseur
- Research Center on Aging, Health and Social Services Centre, University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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da Silva JC, de Araujo CM, Lüders D, Santos RS, Moreira de Lacerda AB, José MR, Guarinello AC. The Self-Stigma of Hearing Loss in Adults and Older Adults: A Systematic Review. Ear Hear 2023; 44:1301-1310. [PMID: 37381145 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000001398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have demonstrated that individuals with hearing loss can internalize social stigmas, resulting in several self-perceived negative connotations, such as incompetence, cognitive impairment, and social disability. This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of the social stigma associated with hearing loss on the self-stigma experienced by adults and older adults. DESIGN Combinations of words and appropriate truncations were selected and adjusted specifically for each electronic database. The Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcomes, and Study Characteristics strategy was used to delimit the scope of the review, bearing in mind the importance of a well-formulated research question. RESULTS A total of 953 articles were retrieved from the final search of each database. Thirty-four studies were selected for full-text reading. Thirteen were excluded, and 21 studies were ultimately included in this review. The results of this review were divided into three themes: (1) impact of social stigmas on self-stigma, (2) effect of emotions on self-stigma, and (3) other factors that impact self-stigma. The themes were related to the relationship between the individual and social perceptions reported by the participants with respect to their hearing experiences. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the impact of social stigma associated with hearing loss on the self-stigma of adults and older adults is strongly associated with the effects of aging and hearing loss, which may lead to withdrawal, social segregation, and negative self-perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamile Cabral da Silva
- Master and Doctoral Program of Communication Disorders, University Tuiuti of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Smartphone-bundled earphones as personal sound amplification products in adults with sensorineural hearing loss. iScience 2022; 25:105436. [PMID: 36590464 PMCID: PMC9801236 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the low prevalence of hearing aid use among individuals with hearing loss due to their high costs and social stigma, personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) may serve as alternatives with adequate hearing compensation and greater accessibility. This study examined the electroacoustic features of hearing aids and selected smartphone-bundled earphones, specifically AirPods, as PSAPs, and compared hearing performances among adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss when aided with each hearing assistive device. Our results indicated that AirPods Pro met four out of five PSAP standards. No significant differences were found regarding speech perception between AirPods Pro and hearing aids in quiet but not with the presence of background noises. AirPods Pro may have the potential to be a hearing assistive device for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. More research is needed to investigate the safety and feasibility of using earphones bundled with other smartphones as PSAPs.
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Psychologically Informed Practice in Audiological Rehabilitation: Audiologist Perceived Barriers, Facilitators, and Preparedness. Ear Hear 2022; 43:1853-1865. [DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000001257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Park J, Lee O, McKee M. Association between hearing loss and suicidal ideation among middle-aged and older adults. Aging Ment Health 2022; 26:1287-1294. [PMID: 33979563 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1919991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hearing loss (HL) is regarded as a major risk factor for late-life depression. This study aims to further examine the association between HL and suicidal ideation (SI) among middle-aged and older adults using a nationally representative sample. METHOD The study sample comprised 34,142 adults (aged 50+) drawn from the 2015 to 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. SI was measured by response to the question, 'At any time in the past year, did you seriously think about trying to kill yourself?' HL was assessed by asking respondents whether they were deaf or had serious difficulty hearing. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between HL and SI after adjusting for a comprehensive list of covariates. RESULTS Compared to those without HL, middle-aged and older adults with HL experienced significant health disparities regarding history of hospitalization, poor perceived health, higher prevalence of chronic diseases, depression, substance use, and SI. HL was positively associated with SI in the past year in both middle-aged (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI [1.14, 2.21], p < .001) and older adult groups (aOR = 1.58, 95% CI [1.07, 2.33], p < .001), controlling for depression, substance use, health status, and sociodemographic variables. CONCLUSION Given the high prevalence of hearing loss (HL) in aging populations, this study aimed to expand our knowledge of the relative strength of association between HL and SI. Findings implied that healthcare providers should consider screening for SI in those with HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junghyun Park
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Othelia Lee
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Michael McKee
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Hemmati Maslakpak M, Ajoudani F, Lotfi M, Alinejad V. Burn self-stigma: A hybrid concept analysis. Burns 2021; 48:1405-1416. [PMID: 34903418 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM As burn self-stigma has not been addressed fully, the purpose of current study is to analyze dimensions of the concept using literature and lived experiences in burn survivors. METHODS Using hybrid concept analysis method, we investigated self-stigma in three phases (i.e. theoretical, fieldwork, and final analytical phase). In the first phase we reviewed the literature using PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, OVID, SID and Google Scholar. Thirteen semi-structured interviews with burn survivors were conducted during the fieldwork phase. Two extra interviews with health care providers were undertaken for the aim of data triangulation. Textual content analysis and inductive content analysis were used to analyze the data of the first and second phases of this study, respectively. The findings of both phases were combined in the final analytical phase and a comprehensive definition was emerged. RESULTS We assigned all our findings into three content areas (i.e. antecedents, properties and consequences), which are dimensions of self-stigma. In final analytical phase antecedent, properties and consequences of the concept were formed in one (society's misconception about burns), three (negative definition of self, emotional responses, and behavioral responses), and three (negative individual effects, negative social effects, and negative familial effects) categories, respectively. Based on these categories and their corresponding subcategories, a comprehensive definition of the concept was presented. CONCLUSION Burn self-stigma is a state in which burn survivors experience unfavorable thoughts and feelings about themselves as a result of society's misconceptions about them. They give emotional and behavioral responses that define them in a negative way. In the end, the burn survivor's individual, familial, and social dimensions are significantly impacted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fardin Ajoudani
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mojgan Lotfi
- Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Alinejad
- Patient Safety Research Centre, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Chundu S, Allen PM, Han W, Ratinaud P, Krishna R, Manchaiah V. Social representation of hearing aids among people with hearing loss: an exploratory study. Int J Audiol 2021; 60:964-978. [PMID: 33650463 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1886349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the current study was to examine the social representation (SR) of hearing aids in people with hearing loss (PHL) in India, the Republic of Korea (ROK), the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States of America (US). DESIGN The study used a cross-sectional survey design. The data collected by using a free association task were analysed qualitatively (i.e. content analysis) and quantitatively (i.e. chi-square analysis, similarities analysis, prototypical analysis). STUDY SAMPLE 424 participants with hearing loss. RESULTS The most commonly reported categories across all countries were "beneficial," "cost and time," and "appearance and design." Approximately 50% of the associations reported were negative. There were variations in terms of the categories that were predominant in the SR of each country. "Others actions and attitude" category was predominantly reported by PHL in India. "Disturbance" and "dissatisfaction" of hearing aids and the "repairs and maintenance of hearing aids" categories were mainly reported from the ROK and the US, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The current results highlight the main aspects that PHL report spontaneously when they think about hearing aids. The findings will help to further inform public health campaigns and will contribute to develop culturally appropriate media materials regarding hearing aids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Chundu
- School of Psychology and Sports Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Group, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Peter M Allen
- School of Psychology and Sports Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Group, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Woojae Han
- Division of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Laboratory of Hearing and Technology, College of Natural Sciences, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Rajalakshmi Krishna
- All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, University of Mysore, Mysore, India
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, USA
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Chundu S, Manchaiah V, Han W, Thammaiah S, Ratinaud P, Allen PM. Social Representation of "Hearing Loss" Among People with Hearing Loss: An Exploratory Cross-Cultural Study. J Am Acad Audiol 2020; 31:725-739. [PMID: 33321537 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1719127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hearing loss can have an effect on the physical, psychosocial, and cognitive wellbeing of an individual. Despite the research on attitudes and stigma associated with hearing loss, people with hearing loss (PHL) continue to delay seeking help. Thus, it is vital to look at alternative theories which have been successfully used in disability research to better understand how PHL perceive hearing loss. PURPOSE The aim of the current exploratory study was to examine the social representation (SR) of "hearing loss" in PHL in India, Republic of Korea (ROK), United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (US). RESEARCH DESIGN The study used a cross-sectional survey design. STUDY SAMPLE In this study, 424 participants were recruited using a consecutive sampling method in four countries (India, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom, and United States). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using content analysis, similarities analysis, prototypical analysis, and chi-square analysis. RESULTS The free associations of the PHL were grouped into 37 categories. The most commonly reported categories were communication difficulties, negative mental state, aging, assessment and management, causes of hearing loss, hearing ability or disability, hearing instruments, and symptoms of hearing loss. Similarities analysis and prototypical analysis highlighted two main negative categories (negative mental state and communication difficulties) which form the central elements of SR of hearing loss. PHL associated hearing loss mainly as a negative phenomenon, but with some positive and neutral aspects. Respondents from ROK reported a greater number of neutral associations compared with other countries. There were cross-cultural similarities and differences in terms of PHL's SR of hearing loss, but there were more similarities than differences. CONCLUSION The study provides an insight into how PHL collectively view their "hearing loss" and helps to develop our understanding of the influence of culture on the SR of "hearing loss." The results will aid the development of culturally appropriate public education campaigns, marketing material, and appropriate rehabilitation for PHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Chundu
- Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Audiology India, Mysore, India
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Audiology India, Mysore, India.,Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas
| | - Woojae Han
- Division of Speech Pathology and Audiology, College of Natural Sciences, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Peter M Allen
- Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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De Iorio ML, Rapport LJ, Wong CG, Stach BA. Characteristics of Adults With Unrecognized Hearing Loss. Am J Audiol 2019; 28:384-390. [PMID: 31084579 DOI: 10.1044/2019_aja-18-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Early detection of hearing loss is important for providing support and intervention for adults with age-related hearing loss. However, many older adults have hearing loss that is unidentified. Because they do not present the problem at health care settings, there is a dearth of research on people with unrecognized hearing loss (URHL). This study elucidates differences between older adults with normal hearing, adults with recognized hearing loss (RHL), and adults with URHL. Method Participants included 130 adults, ages 55-85 years. Of these, 39 had hearing in the normal range (HNR), 61 had RHL, and 30 reported HNR but failed a hearing screen (i.e., URHL). Participants completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS; Watson, Clark, & Tellegen, 1988 ) and a battery of neuropsychological tests. Results The URHL group reported more positive affectivity than the HNR and RHL groups on the PANAS. In addition, the URHL group was significantly older and more likely to be male compared to the HNR group. Importantly, age was not significantly correlated with PANAS. Positive affectivity accounted for unique variance in group membership even after accounting for age, gender, physical health, and cognitive health. Conclusions Older adults with URHL have more positive affectivity than older adults with HNR or RHL. This group may be prone to downplaying their difficulties; consequently, they may need to experience larger hearing deficits before seeking help. The findings highlight the need for research investigating the effectiveness of psychoeducation on the importance of formal hearing assessment verses relying on self-assessment in facilitating early and effective intervention among people with URHL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa J. Rapport
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | | | - Brad A. Stach
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
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