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Grigsby S, Muñoz K, San Miguel GG, Twohig MP. Discussing Patient Emotions in Audiology: Provider Experiences With the Implementation Process of Hearing Loss Psychological Inflexibility Screenings. Am J Audiol 2024; 33:354-368. [PMID: 38563702 DOI: 10.1044/2024_aja-23-00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators experienced by clinical educators and graduate students when talking with patients about difficult emotions and thoughts related to their hearing. METHOD A longitudinal observational design was used and an Implementation Research Logic Model guided the process. Five clinical educators and five graduate students participated in the study. Participants completed pre- and postmeasures and attended individual debriefing sessions during the 8-month study period. RESULTS Four themes emerged from the debriefing sessions: (a) learning process, (b) confidence, (c) barriers, and (d) supervision. Participants described that the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-Managing Child Hearing Loss and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-Adult Hearing Loss served as a reminder to ask about patients' internal barriers and increased awareness of their discomfort in talking about patient emotions. Participants also described barriers and struggles related to supporting students in gaining counseling skills. CONCLUSIONS Screening for internal challenges helped clinicians remember to talk with patients about their difficult thoughts and emotions. Clinician hesitancy to engage in conversations with patients about their emotions can interfere with opportunities for patients to share their struggles and with training student in these skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydnee Grigsby
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
- National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management, Utah State University, Logan
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Bennett RJ, Bucks RS, Saulsman L, Pachana NA, Eikelboom RH, Meyer CJ. Evaluation of the Ask-Inform-Manage-Encourage-Refer Intervention and Its Implementation Targeting the Provision of Mental Wellbeing Support Within the Audiology Setting. Ear Hear 2024; 45:600-616. [PMID: 38148508 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000001452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The ask, inform, manage, encourage, refer (AIMER) program is a behavior change intervention designed to increase the frequency with which hearing healthcare clinicians (HHCs) ask about and provide information regarding mental wellbeing within adult audiology services. The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the first iteration of the AIMER program to determine whether the intervention achieved the changes in HHC behaviors anticipated and to evaluate feasibility of implementing the AIMER program based on the implementation protocol. DESIGN The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework was used to guide this evaluation. Data were collected from October 2020 to February 2022 and included both quantitative and qualitative measures (i.e., observation reports, staff surveys, clinical diaries, clinical file audits, and interviews). RESULTS Comparison between pre- and post-implementation data showed that the AIMER intervention successfully increased: (i) HHC's skills and confidence for discussing mental wellbeing; (ii) how often HHCs ask about mental wellbeing within audiology consultations; (iii) how often HHCs provide personalized information and support regarding mental wellbeing within audiology consultations; and (iv) how often HHCs use mental wellbeing terms within clinical case notes and general practitioner reports. The factors affecting feasibility of implementing the AIMER program within the clinical setting could be classified into three major categories: (i) the AIMER program itself and its way of delivery to clinical staff; (ii) people working with the AIMER program; and (iii) contextual factors. Key recommendations to improve future implementation of the AIMER program were provided by the participants. CONCLUSIONS The AIMER program was shown to be effective at increasing the frequency with which HHCs ask about and provide information regarding mental wellbeing within routine audiological service delivery. Implementation of the AIMER program was feasible but leaves room for improvement. Use of the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance framework facilitated systematic evaluation of multiple indicators providing a broad evaluation of the AIMER program. Our analysis helps to better understand the optimal levels of training and facilitation and provides recommendations to improve future scale-up of the AIMER program. The findings of this study will be used to further adapt and improve the AIMER program and to enhance program implementation strategies before its further dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Sydney, Australia
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Romola S Bucks
- The Raine Study, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carly J Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Warren SE, Barron AL. Audiologists' attitudes and practice toward referring for psychosocial intervention with cochlear implant patients. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 4:1306485. [PMID: 38239630 PMCID: PMC10794524 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1306485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Hearing loss is associated with a range of poor psychosocial outcomes. Cochlear implants (CI) are an available treatment option for significant hearing loss and have been linked to improved quality of life in patients. Evidence suggests that audiologists lack the skills to appropriately detect, address, and refer for psychosocial needs among patients with hearing loss. The objective of this study is to examine the attitudes and practice patterns related to psychosocial care among audiologists who work with CI users. Methods A cross-sectional survey was administered to clinical audiologists who work with CI recipients in the United States. The survey evaluated participants' attitudes toward psychosocial services and factors that contribute to their abilities to address the psychosocial needs of their patients. Additionally, participants were surveyed about their practice patterns including the use of psychosocial screeners, clinical protocols regarding psychosocial care, and referral patterns for coordinated psychosocial services. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize survey responses. Results Sixty-eight audiologists completed the survey. Of these audiologists, a majority (73.6%) held the attitude that most or all CI patients would benefit from psychosocial intervention. Despite clinicians' recognition of psychosocial needs in this population, over 90% of participants reported never screening for psychosocial symptoms. Additionally, a majority of respondents indicated that they seldom refer their patients for psychosocial services, with referrals occurring less than half the time (58%) or never (27%). Additionally, few audiologists reported utilizing protocols or resources for guiding psychosocial practices. Audiologists indicated that the primary factors that influence their psychosocial practices include time available to spend with the patient and their comfort level in counseling. Conclusion Audiologists working with CI patients recognize the potential benefit of psychosocial intervention in this population. Nevertheless, audiologists encounter barriers in clinical practice which limit their ability to identify and address the psychosocial needs of their patients. Strategies designed to enhance audiologists' capacity to recognize the psychosocial needs of CI users, in addition to improved interprofessional practice on CI teams, implies significant opportunities to improve the provision of patient-centered hearing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Warren
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Autumn L. Barron
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, United States
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Mothemela B, Manchaiah V, Mahomed-Asmail F, Graham M, Swanepoel DW. Factors Associated With Hearing Aid Outcomes Including Social Networks, Self-Reported Mental Health, and Service Delivery Models. Am J Audiol 2023; 32:823-831. [PMID: 37669616 DOI: 10.1044/2023_aja-22-00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to identify and describe factors that influence hearing aid outcomes including social networks, self-reported mental health, and service delivery models. METHOD A prospective cross-sectional online survey was sent to hearing aid users recruited through an online platform (http://www.hearingtracker.com) between October and November 2021. The survey contained questions on patient demographics, audiological variables, general health and social factors, and self-reported hearing aid outcomes using the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA). Regression models evaluated potential contributing factors of hearing aid outcomes on the IOI-HA. RESULTS Three hundred ninety-eight hearing aid users completed the survey with an average age of 66.6 (SD = 13.0) years, of which 59.3% were male. Positive contributing factors of hearing aid outcomes (IOI-HA total score) were social network of people with hearing loss with hearing aids (p < .010; Exp[B] = 0.03, 95% CI [0.01, 0.1]), self-reported mental health (p < .05; Exp[B] = 0.6, 95% CI [0.01, 1.2]), work situation (p < .001; Exp[B] = 1.9, 95% CI [0.7, 2.8]), quality of life (p < .005; Exp[B] = 1.2, 95% CI [0.3, 1.1]), and self-reported hearing difficulty (p < .02; Exp[B] = 0.8, 95% CI [0.2, 1.5]). Negative contributing factors of hearing aid outcomes included social networks of people with hearing loss without hearing aids (p < .001; Exp[B] = -0.1, 95% CI [-0.2, -0.2]) and service delivery model of private or university clinic compared to big-box retailers (p < .001; Exp[B] = -1.6, 95% CI [-2.7, -0.7]). CONCLUSIONS Novel factors including social network of persons with hearing loss who use hearing aids, self-reported mental health, service delivery model, and work situation are significant contributors to hearing aid outcomes. These newly identified factors can inform public hearing health promotion and individualized audiological care to optimize hearing aid outcomes. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.24060486.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bopane Mothemela
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Virtual Hearing Lab (a collaborative initiative between the University of Colorado School of Medicine and University of Pretoria), Aurora, CO
| | - Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Virtual Hearing Lab (a collaborative initiative between the University of Colorado School of Medicine and University of Pretoria), Aurora, CO
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- UCHealth Hearing and Balance Clinic, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India
| | - Faheema Mahomed-Asmail
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Virtual Hearing Lab (a collaborative initiative between the University of Colorado School of Medicine and University of Pretoria), Aurora, CO
| | - Marien Graham
- Department of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Virtual Hearing Lab (a collaborative initiative between the University of Colorado School of Medicine and University of Pretoria), Aurora, CO
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
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Bennett RJ, Bucks RS, Saulsman L, Pachana NA, Eikelboom RH, Meyer CJ. Use of the Behaviour Change Wheel to design an intervention to improve the provision of mental wellbeing support within the audiology setting. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:46. [PMID: 37131257 PMCID: PMC10153035 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00427-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study describes the development of an intervention to increase the frequency of audiologists' asking about and providing information regarding mental wellbeing within adult audiology services. DESIGN The Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW), an eight-step systematic process, was followed to develop the intervention. Reports describing the first four steps are published elsewhere. This report describes the final four steps and details the intervention developed. RESULTS A multifaceted intervention was developed to change audiologists' behaviours relating to providing mental wellbeing support to adults with hearing loss. Specifically, three behaviours were targeted: (1) asking clients about their mental wellbeing, (2) providing general information on the mental wellbeing impacts of hearing loss, and (3) providing personalised information on managing the mental wellbeing impacts of hearing loss. A variety of intervention functions and behaviour change techniques were incorporated into the intervention, including instruction and demonstration, information about others approval, adding objects to the environment, use of prompts/cues, and endorsement from credible sources. CONCLUSION This study is the first to use the Behaviour Change Wheel to develop an intervention targeting mental wellbeing support behaviours in audiologists and confirms the usability and usefulness of the approach in a complex area of clinical care. The systematic development of the Ask, Inform, Manage, Encourage, Refer (AIMER) intervention will facilitate a thorough evaluation of its effectiveness in the next phase of this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, 1 Salvado Road, Subiaco, WA, Australia.
- Centre for Ear Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
- Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia.
| | - Romola S Bucks
- The Raine Study, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, 1 Salvado Road, Subiaco, WA, Australia
- Centre for Ear Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
- Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carly J Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
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Bennett RJ, Nickbakht M, Saulsman L, Pachana NA, Eikelboom RH, Bucks RS, Meyer CJ. Providing information on mental well-being during audiological consultations: exploring barriers and facilitators using the COM-B model. Int J Audiol 2023; 62:269-277. [PMID: 35175887 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2034997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the barriers and facilitators of hearing healthcare clinicians (HHC) providing information to audiology consumers on (i) the mental health impacts of hearing loss, and (ii) management options for improving mental well-being. DESIGN A qualitative study using semi-structured individual and group interviews. Both the interview guide and the deductive process of data analysis were based on the COM-B model (Capabilities, Opportunities and Motivations required for Behaviour change). STUDY SAMPLE Fifteen HHCs with between 2 and 25 years of clinical experience (mean 9.3). RESULTS Psychological Capability barriers included lack of knowledge relating to mental health signs and symptoms, management options available, referral processes, and resources/tools to assist discussion of options. Social opportunity barriers included clients' lack of openness to receive mental health-related information from their HHC. Automatic motivation factors included feeling uncomfortable and helpless when discussing mental health. Reflective motivation factors included clinician's limiting beliefs concerning their role and responsibilities regarding provision of mental health support, and doubts about whether mental health services are truly beneficial for clients with hearing loss. CONCLUSION Application of the COM-B model for behaviour change identified factors that need to be addressed to increase the provision of mental health information in the audiology setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Mansoureh Nickbakht
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Romola S Bucks
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,The Raine Study, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Carly J Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
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Laird EC, Bryant CA, Barr CM, Bennett RJ. Conversations about mental illness and health in adult audiological rehabilitation. Int J Audiol 2023; 62:253-260. [PMID: 35148212 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2034060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the nature of mental health discussions in audiological rehabilitation, specifically, the types of conversations, when and how they are initiated, and the participant factors associated with discussing mental health. DESIGN A cross-sectional descriptive survey including quantitative (multiple choice) and qualitative (free-text) questions regarding mental health discussions between audiologists and clients. STUDY SAMPLE A convenience sample of 118 Australian audiologists working in adult audiological rehabilitation. RESULTS The majority of participants (95.8%) reported having engaged in discussions with clients about mental illness and health at some point throughout their career. The frequency of these discussions varied across participants: 7% rarely discuss, 50% discuss occasionally, 30% discuss with about half their clients and 13% have discussions with most clients. Many participants (85.6%) reported that clients would initiate these conversations, most often via disclosing the impacts of hearing loss on clients' lives. CONCLUSIONS Most audiologists will encounter clients with mental health concerns, and many will engage in conversations about psychological symptoms, therefore, training audiologists to recognise and address verbal and non-verbal cues regarding mental health may help to promote person-centred care and potentially improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Laird
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christina A Bryant
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Caitlin M Barr
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Soundfair Australia Ltd, Mount Waverley, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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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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9
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Nickbakht M, Meyer CJ, Saulsman L, Pachana NA, Eikelboom RH, Bucks RS, Bennett RJ. Barriers and facilitators to asking adults with hearing loss about their emotional and psychological well-being: a COM-B analysis. Int J Audiol 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35436178 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2056090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the barriers and facilitators faced by hearing healthcare clinicians (HHCs) with respect to asking adults with hearing loss (HL) about their emotional well-being. DESIGN This qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured individual interviews and focus groups. The interview topic guide was developed based on the COM-B model. STUDY SAMPLE Fifteen HHCs of a single hearing services organisation in Western Australia across 13 clinic locations participated. RESULTS Barriers and facilitators that may influence HHCs' behaviour of routinely asking adults about their emotional well-being include having the knowledge and skills to ask about emotional well-being, forgetting to ask, awareness of the emotional impacts of HL, time and tools for asking, clients' reactions to being asked, supportive peers, normalisation of discussions relating to emotional well-being, presence of significant others, emotions associated with asking, being in the habit of asking, reminders, beliefs about consequences and confidence or capabilities, and scope of audiology practice. CONCLUSIONS Application of the COM-B model identified barriers in capabilities (e.g. knowledge), opportunities (e.g. tools), and motivation (e.g. beliefs about benefits of asking about emotions) that need to be addressed for HHCs to ask their clients about their emotional well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Nickbakht
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Carly J Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Romola S Bucks
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Bennett
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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Malmberg M, Anióse K, Skans J, Öberg M. A randomised, controlled trial of clinically implementing online hearing support. Int J Audiol 2022; 62:472-480. [PMID: 35436174 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2059712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The research-oriented objective of this study was to document the effectiveness of online support for hearing aid (HA) users compared with traditional support.Design: This study is a randomised controlled trial with parallel group design. The research-oriented objectives were evaluated using the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly (HHIE) and the Communication Strategies Scale (CSS) at baseline and immediately postintervention.Study sample: Selected clients at five different clinics were randomised to an intervention group (n = 78) that took part in online hearing support and a control group (n = 58) that received standard care.Results: The analyses (intention-to-treat) showed statistically significant improvements in the HHIE-total and Emotional subscale scores for the intervention group compared with the control group. The intervention group also showed significantly greater improvement in the CSS-total and Verbal and Nonverbal subscale scores. A subgroup analysis was performed including two groups: HA use <1 year and HA use >1 year. A statistically significant improvement was found for the HA users >1 year compared with HA use <1 year.Conclusions: It is effective to clinically include online hearing support for HA users when addressing self-perceived hearing difficulties and to sharpen communication strategy skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milijana Malmberg
- Research and Development, Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Göteborg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Katja Anióse
- Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Hearing Organization, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Johanna Skans
- Region Västra Götaland, Habilitation & Health, Hearing Organization, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Marie Öberg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology in Linköping, and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Sensory Organs and Communication, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Bennett RJ, Donaldson S, Kelsall-Foreman I, Meyer C, Pachana NA, Saulsman L, Eikelboom RH, Bucks RS. Addressing Emotional and Psychological Problems Associated With Hearing Loss: Perspective of Consumer and Community Representatives. Am J Audiol 2021; 30:1130-1138. [PMID: 34670097 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-21-00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hearing loss causes emotional distress and can contribute to the development of psychological difficulties, yet emotional and psychological issues are not addressed within current audiology services. The purpose of this study was to use focus groups with consumer and community representatives to explore how we might improve the provision of support for clients experiencing emotional and psychological issues in relation to their hearing loss. PARTICIPANTS Adults with hearing loss (n = 19) and their significant others (n = 9), as well as 10 hearing health care professionals (n = 4 hearing health care clinicians, n = 4 reception staff, and n = 2 clinical managers), participated in consumer and community engagement focus groups. METHOD Consumer and community representatives were tasked with (a) identifying the stakeholders involved in supporting adults experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties on account of their hearing loss, (b) describing the behaviors undertaken by each stakeholder group, and (c) selecting target behavior(s) that could optimally form the basis of an intervention program to improve the quality and frequency of support provided to people experiencing emotional and psychological problems in the audiology setting. RESULTS Participants identified 12 stakeholder groups involved in supporting adults with hearing loss experiencing emotional and psychological problems. The three behaviors voted by participants to be the most promising for a behavioral intervention included the clinician (a) asking about, (b) providing information on, and (c) delivering therapeutic intervention for emotional and psychological well-being within audiological service provision. CONCLUSION Consumer and community stakeholder representatives indicate a general desire for hearing health care clinicians to deliver support for the emotional and psychological issues that arise relating to hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Sara Donaldson
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - India Kelsall-Foreman
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Carly Meyer
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Nancy A. Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Robert H. Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Romola S. Bucks
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- The Raine Study, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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12
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Bennett RJ, Kelsall-Foreman I, Donaldson S, Olaithe M, Saulsman L, Badcock JC. Exploring Current Practice, Knowledge, and Training Needs for Managing Psychosocial Concerns in the Audiology Setting: Perspectives of Audiologists, Audiology Reception Staff, and Managers. Am J Audiol 2021; 30:557-589. [PMID: 34139126 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-20-00189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the current practices and training requirements for supporting clients experiencing psychosocial concerns in the audiology setting, from the perspectives of audiology clinicians, managers, and reception staff. Method Convenience sampling was used to recruit audiologists, reception staff, and clinic managers (N = 13, M age = 32.2 ± 8.1, range: 25-47 years, 11 female) through a large hearing services provider in Western Australia. A semistructured focus group was used to elicit participant views regarding current experiences relating to clients who express psychosocial concerns in the audiology setting, familiarity with psychosocial interventions, and training requirements for delivery of psychosocial interventions in the audiological setting. Results Twenty-four subthemes were identified across six themes: (1) awareness of psychosocial well-being, (2) the role of others, (3) identifying client's psychosocial needs, (4) managing client's psychosocial needs, (5) barriers to providing psychosocial support, and (6) broadening audiological services to include psychosocial support. Conclusions Participants reported an awareness of their clients' psychosocial challenges within the audiology setting, yet they described uncertainty in how best to respond in providing support and whether this was within their scope of practice. A majority of audiology staff expressed desire and motivation to broaden the scope of their service in order to better address their clients' hearing loss-related psychosocial needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - India Kelsall-Foreman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Sara Donaldson
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Michelle Olaithe
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Lisa Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Johanna C. Badcock
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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13
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Bennett RJ, Meyer CJ, Ryan BJ, Eikelboom RH. How Do Audiologists Respond to Emotional and Psychological Concerns Raised in the Audiology Setting? Three Case Vignettes. Ear Hear 2021; 41:1675-1683. [PMID: 33136641 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000000887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Emotional and psychological well-being are essential to overall health, but there is little research showing how to approach emotional and psychological concerns in the audiological setting. This study investigated audiologists' self-reported clinical behaviors in response to emotional and psychological concerns and/or symptoms raised by audiology clients. DESIGN A sample of 83 Australia-based audiologists completed a survey including vignettes presenting older adults with hearing loss and experiencing symptoms consistent with either depression or grief. Content analysis was used to explore: (1) audiologists' self-reported usual response when clients present with emotional and psychological concerns and/or symptoms in the audiological setting; (2) audiologists' ability to identify and describe psychological symptoms; and (3) audiologists' self-reported clinical behaviors relating to client referral for psychological support. RESULTS When asked to describe their usual clinical course of action in response to the vignettes, over one half the audiologists described actions that address the clients concerns related to psychological well-being. Where audiologists described how they would provide psychological support, they described modifications to the audiological rehabilitation program including involving significant others in the rehabilitation process, recommending additional support outside of the audiology setting (such as General Practitioner or psychologists), and providing emotional support and counseling. When prompted, the majority of participants recognized the two cases with depression as having a mental health condition; however, 48% of participants indicated the control case as also having a mental health condition. When asked directly, the majority of audiologists indicated that they would refer the three vignettes for specialist support; however, less than one third described referral to a General Practitioner and less than 5% described referral to a mental health professional as their normal course of action in the open response item. Twenty-five different professions/people were reported as potential sources for referral. CONCLUSION These findings support the need for further training and/or resources for audiologists to enable them to appropriately detect, describe and refer for emotional and psychological concerns and/or symptoms raised by clients' in the audiology setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Carly J Meyer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Brooke J Ryan
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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14
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Manchaiah V, Eikelboom RH, Bennett RJ, Swanepoel DW. International survey of audiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic: effects on the workplace. Int J Audiol 2021; 61:265-272. [PMID: 34137644 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1937348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study surveyed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the audiology workplace. DESIGN The study used a cross-sectional survey design for audiologists across the globe (n = 337) using an online survey (June-August 2020) focussing on changes to the workplace during the pandemic. RESULTS Participants represented varied work settings and audiology services. Only a third (31.5%) provided psychosocial support, which may be important during the pandemic, as part of their services. Almost all (97%) audiologists reported changes to their workplace, with 76.4% reporting reduced caseloads during the COVID-19 pandemic. When rating their current and anticipated work conditions, 38.7% reported reduced working hours although only 13.8% anticipated reduced working hours in 6-months' time. Audiologists ranked services such as access to hearing assessment, hearing device adjustment and maintenance, and general audiological support as being more important during the pandemic than services such as psychosocial, emotional and tinnitus support. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant disruptions to audiological practice that highlights the need to adapt and incorporate new audiological practices including telehealth, to ensure patients have continued access to care and clinics remain sustainable during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and recovery phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Manchaiah
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, USA.,Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia.,Ear Sciences Centre, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
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15
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Saunders GH, Vercammen C, Timmer BHB, Singh G, Pelosi A, Meis M, Launer S, Kramer SE, Gagné JP, Bott A. Changing the narrative for hearing health in the broader context of healthy living: a call to action. Int J Audiol 2021; 60:86-91. [PMID: 33794720 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2021.1905892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To discuss the steps necessary to facilitate hearing health care in the context of well-being and healthy living. DESIGN Common themes among the articles in this special supplement of the International Journal of Audiology were used to identify issues that must be addressed if audiology is to move from being hearing-focussed to taking a holistic perspective of hearing care in the context of healthy aging. These are discussed within the context of other published literature. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Three needs were identified: (i) Increased interdisciplinary education to raise awareness of the interplay between hearing and health. (ii) Increased emphasis on counselling education in audiology programs so that audiologists are equipped with the knowledge, competence and confidence to provide counselling and emotional support to their patients, beyond care. (iii) Redefinition of therapeutic goal setting and hearing outcomes to include aspects of well-being, so that audiologists can capture and patients realise that that good hearing outcomes can have a direct positive impact on a person's quality of life that extends beyond their improved ability to hear. It was emphasised that each of these needs to be considered within the context of the audiologists' scope of practice and audiologists' well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle H Saunders
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Barbra H B Timmer
- Sonova AG, Stafa, Switzerland.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Phonak Canada, Mississauga, Canada.,Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Marcus Meis
- Hörzentrum Oldenburg gGmbH, Oldenburg, Germany.,Cluster of excellence Hearing4all, University of Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Launer
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Sonova AG, Stafa, Switzerland.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Sophia E Kramer
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Oldenburg, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jean-Pierre Gagné
- École d'orthophonie et d'audiologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Fondation Caroline Durand en audition et vieillissement de l'Universtié de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Anthea Bott
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,GN Hearing A/S, Ballerup, Denmark
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16
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Laird EC, Bennett RJ, Barr CM, Bryant CA. Experiences of Hearing Loss and Audiological Rehabilitation for Older Adults With Comorbid Psychological Symptoms: A Qualitative Study. Am J Audiol 2020; 29:809-824. [PMID: 32976041 DOI: 10.1044/2020_aja-19-00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose There is a well-established relationship between hearing loss and psychological symptoms. To ensure audiological rehabilitation is provided appropriately for older adults with comorbid psychological symptoms, a greater understanding of their preferences and experiences is needed. This study sought to understand experiences of hearing loss and audiological rehabilitation from the perspective of older adults with comorbid psychological symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, psychosis). Design A qualitative study using in-depth semistructured interviews was conducted with older adults who had attended audiological rehabilitation within the last year and scored above established cutoffs on measures of depression, anxiety, and psychosis. A thematic analysis generated themes that related to participants' experiences of hearing loss and audiological rehabilitation. Results Participants included 14 older adults (eight men and six women) with an average age of 70.5 years (SD = 4.45, range: 64-80) who received hearing aids or a cochlear implant. Three major themes emerged from the analysis of participant interviews. "The cumulative impact of hearing loss and psychological symptoms" theme describes the two-way, additive relationship between hearing ability and psychological symptoms. "The experience of loss throughout hearing loss and audiological rehabilitation" captures subjective losses, the impact they have, and how participants cope with them. In contrast, "The experience of gain throughout hearing loss and audiological rehabilitation" describes the participants' reported gains, their related impacts, and coping strategies. Conclusions The experiences of participants revealed that the presence of comorbid psychological symptoms can influence the experience of hearing loss and audiological rehabilitation. These findings have implications for how audiological rehabilitation is provided to ensure optimal outcomes for adults with hearing loss and comorbid psychological symptoms. Supplemental Material https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12985955.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Laird
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Caitlin M. Barr
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Soundfair Australia Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria
| | - Christina A. Bryant
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Whicker JJ, Ong CW, Muñoz K, Twohig MP. The Relationship Between Psychological Processes and Indices of Well-Being Among Adults With Hearing Loss. Am J Audiol 2020; 29:728-737. [PMID: 32916060 DOI: 10.1044/2020_aja-20-00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the role of psychological processes (i.e., internalized shame, self-efficacy, psychological inflexibility) regarding hearing loss in the well-being of adults who have hearing loss. Method This study used a cross-sectional survey design. Two hundred sixty-four surveys were submitted for analysis. Data were collected using a survey posted to online social media support, in audiology clinics across the country, and through national organizations supporting individuals who have hearing loss. Regressions were used to determine whether internalized shame, self-efficacy, or psychological inflexibility held any predictive value over subjects' well-being. Results Shame, self-efficacy, and psychological inflexibility significantly predicted different aspects of well-being. Conclusion Audiologists should consider the role of internalized thoughts and emotions regarding patients' hearing loss on how patients understand and manage their hearing health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J. Whicker
- Department of Rehabilitation, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
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18
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Bennett RJ, Barr C, Cortis A, Eikelboom RH, Ferguson M, Gerace D, Heffernan E, Hickson L, van Leeuwen L, Montano J, Preminger JE, Pronk M, Saunders GH, Singh G, Timmer BHB, Weinstein B, Bellekom S. Audiological approaches to address the psychosocial needs of adults with hearing loss: perceived benefit and likelihood of use. Int J Audiol 2020; 60:12-19. [PMID: 33176511 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1839680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the perceived benefit and likely implementation of approaches used by audiologists to address their adult clients' psychosocial needs related to hearing loss. DESIGN Adults with hearing loss and audiologists completed separate, but related, surveys to rate their perceived benefit and also their likely use of 66 clinical approaches (divided over seven themes) that aim to address psychosocial needs related to hearing loss. STUDY SAMPLE A sample of 52 Australian adults with hearing loss, and an international sample of 19 audiologists. RESULTS Overall, participants rated all of the approaches highly on both benefit and likelihood of use; the highest ranked theme was Providing Emotional Support. Cohort comparisons showed that audiologists ranked the approaches significantly higher than did adults with hearing loss. Overall, participants ranked the themes higher on benefit than on the likelihood to use scales. CONCLUSIONS Adults with hearing loss and audiologists recognise the importance of approaches that address the psychosocial impacts of hearing loss in audiological rehabilitation. However, both groups placed slightly greater value on the internal-based approaches (the clients own emotional response, empowerment, and responsibility), and slightly less emphasis on the external-based approaches (being supported by communication partners, support groups or other health professionals).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Alex Cortis
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Melanie Ferguson
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel Gerace
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Eithne Heffernan
- Discipline of General Practice, Clinical Science Institute, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Louise Hickson
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisette van Leeuwen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Jill E Preminger
- Program in Audiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA.,Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Marieke Pronk
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gabrielle H Saunders
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Phonak Canada, Mississauga, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Barbra H B Timmer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Sonova AG, Staefa, Switzerland
| | | | - Sandra Bellekom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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19
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Driver C, Lovell GP, Oprescu F. Psychosocial strategies for physiotherapy: A qualitative examination of physiotherapists' reported training preferences. Nurs Health Sci 2020; 23:136-147. [PMID: 32860451 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.12771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Physiotherapists report using a range of psychosocial strategies in their practice, yet, barriers to implementation include lack of time, limited knowledge, and minimal training. This research aimed to establish what training physiotherapists have had with regards to psychosocial strategies, why they think they would benefit from more training, what training they want, and delivery preferences. Content analysis of answers to four open-ended, online survey questions collected from Australian physiotherapists (N = 208) was conducted. Physiotherapists reported having minimal training specific to psychosocial strategies. Physiotherapists reported wanting training in assessment and management of psychosocial issues, and practical application of specific psychosocial strategies. Didactic and interactive training delivered by experts who understand the psychosocial needs of their patients, and the constraints of physiotherapy practice was preferred. These findings suggest that training in psychosocial strategies at the undergraduate level and continued professional development are necessary. Specifically, training in the assessment and management of psychosocial factors, and in referral processes is warranted, and should be applicable and appropriate for rehabilitation settings. Training should be both didactic and interactive as outlined in the proposed framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Driver
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Geoff P Lovell
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Sport, Hartpury University, Gloucester, UK
| | - Florin Oprescu
- School of Health and Sport Science, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
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20
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Bennett RJ, Barr C, Montano J, Eikelboom RH, Saunders GH, Pronk M, Preminger JE, Ferguson M, Weinstein B, Heffernan E, van Leeuwen L, Hickson L, Timmer BHB, Singh G, Gerace D, Cortis A, Bellekom SR. Identifying the approaches used by audiologists to address the psychosocial needs of their adult clients. Int J Audiol 2020; 60:104-114. [PMID: 32940093 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1817995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the approaches taken by audiologists to address their adult clients' psychosocial needs related to hearing loss. DESIGN A participatory mixed methods design. Participants generated statements describing the ways in which the psychosocial needs of their adult clients with hearing loss are addressed, and then grouped the statements into themes. Data were obtained using face-to-face and online structured questions. Concept mapping techniques were used to identify key concepts and to map each of the concepts relative to each other. STUDY SAMPLE An international sample of 65 audiologists. RESULTS Ninety-three statements were generated and grouped into seven conceptual clusters: Client Empowerment; Use of Strategies and Training to Personalise the Rehabilitation Program; Facilitating Peer and Other Professional Support; Providing Emotional Support; Improving Social Engagement with Technology; Including Communication Partners; and Promoting Client Responsibility. CONCLUSIONS Audiologists employ a wide range of approaches in their attempt to address the psychosocial needs associated with hearing loss experienced by their adult clients. The approaches described were mostly informal and provided in a non-standardised way. The majority of approaches described were not evidence-based, despite the availability of several options that are evidence-based, thus highlighting the implementation gap between research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Bennett
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Caitlin Barr
- Soundfair, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Australia
| | | | - Robert H Eikelboom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gabrielle H Saunders
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Marieke Pronk
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jill E Preminger
- Program in Audiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Eithne Heffernan
- Discipline of General Practice, Clinical Science Institute, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Lisette van Leeuwen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louise Hickson
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Barbra H B Timmer
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.,Sonova AG, Staefa, Switzerland
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Sonova AG, Staefa, Switzerland.,Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel Gerace
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Alex Cortis
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Sandra R Bellekom
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Australia.,The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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