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Kelly C, Munro KJ, Visram AS, Jones L, Chilton H, Armitage CJ. What factors are associated with infant hearing aid use? A parent survey using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Int J Audiol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38913029 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2024.2358428] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hearing aid use is lowest in 0-3-year-olds with hearing loss, placing spoken language development at risk. Existing interventions lack effectiveness and are typically not based on a theoretically driven, comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing infant hearing aid use. The present study is the first to address this gap in understanding. DESIGN AND STUDY SAMPLE A 55-item online survey based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was completed by 56 parents of 0-3-year-old hearing aid users. RESULTS Participants reported a wide range of barriers across TDF domains, which were associated with parent-reported hearing aid use and more pronounced in parents of lower hearing aid users. The most strongly reported domains across participants were "emotion" (e.g. feelings of worry when using hearing aids), "beliefs about capabilities" (e.g. belief in ability to use hearing aids consistently), and "environmental context and resources" (e.g. child removing hearing aids). CONCLUSIONS Parents report a wider range of barriers to infant hearing aid use than existing investigations suggest and current interventions address. Interventions would benefit from: (i) targeting a wider range of TDF domains in their design; and (ii) implementing the present TDF survey to identify and target family-specific barriers to infant hearing aid use.
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Lin MJ, Chen CK. Breaking Sound Barriers: Exploring Tele-Audiology's Impact on Hearing Healthcare. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:856. [PMID: 38667501 PMCID: PMC11049182 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080856] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hearing impairment is a global issue, affecting billions of people; however, there is a gap between the population affected by hearing loss and those able to access hearing healthcare. Tele-audiology, the application of telemedicine in audiology, serves as a new form of technology which aims to provide synchronous or asynchronous hearing healthcare. In this article, we reviewed some recent studies of tele-audiology-related topics to have a glimpse of the current development, associated challenges, and future advancement. Through the utilization of tele-audiology, patients can conveniently access hearing healthcare, and thus save travel costs and time. Recent studies indicate that remote hearing screening and intervention are non-inferior to the performance of traditional clinical pathways. However, despite its potential benefits, the implementation of tele-audiology faces numerous challenges, and audiologists have varying attitudes on this technology. Overcoming obstacles such as high infrastructure costs, limited reimbursement, and the lack of quality standards calls for concerted efforts to develop effective strategies. Ethical concerns, reimbursement, and patient privacy are all crucial aspects requiring in-depth discussion. Enhancing the education and training of students and healthcare workers, along with providing relevant resources, will contribute to a more efficient, systematic hearing healthcare. Future research will aim to develop integrated models with evidence-based protocols and incorporating AI to enhance the affordability and accessibility of hearing healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mien-Jen Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333323, Taiwan;
| | - Chin-Kuo Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 204201, Taiwan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333323, Taiwan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Enhancement Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan
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Szarkowski A, Moeller MP, Gale E, Smith T, Birdsey BC, Moodie STF, Carr G, Stredler-Brown A, Yoshinaga-Itano C, Holzinger D. Family-Centered Early Intervention Deaf/Hard of Hearing (FCEI-DHH): Support Principles. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2024; 29:SI64-SI85. [PMID: 38422442 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This article is the sixth in a series of eight articles that comprise a special issue on Family-Centered Early Intervention (FCEI) for children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) and their families, or FCEI-DHH. The Support Principles article is the second of three articles that describe the 10 Principles of FCEI-DHH, preceded by the Foundation Principles, and followed by the Structure Principles, all in this special issue. The Support Principles are composed of four Principles (Principles 3, 4, 5, and 6) that highlight (a) the importance of a variety of supports for families raising children who are DHH; (b) the need to attend to and ensure the well-being of all children who are DHH; (c) the necessity of building the language and communication abilities of children who are DHH and their family members; and (d) the importance of considering the family's strengths, needs, and values in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Szarkowski
- The Institute, Children's Children's Center for Communication/Beverly School for the Deaf, Beverly, MA, United States
- Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mary Pat Moeller
- Center for Childhood Deafness, Language & Learning, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Elaine Gale
- School of Education, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Bianca C Birdsey
- Global Coalition of Parents of Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (GPODHH), Durban, South Africa
| | - Sheila T F Moodie
- Health Sciences, School of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Gwen Carr
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention and Family Centered Practice, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arlene Stredler-Brown
- Colorado Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program, Colorado Department of Human Services, Denver, CO, United States
| | | | - Daniel Holzinger
- Institute of Neurology of Senses and Language, Hospital of St. John of God, Linz, Austria
- Research Institute for Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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Muñoz K, Guillen D, Muñoz C, Twohig MP. Pediatric Hearing Aid Management: Experiences and Perspectives of Spanish-Speaking Parents. Am J Audiol 2023; 32:812-822. [PMID: 37616190 DOI: 10.1044/2023_aja-23-00070] [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: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the study was twofold: (a) to explore hearing aid management experiences of Spanish-speaking parents who have young children using hearing aids and (b) to explore parents' access to the Internet and perceptions about remote audiology services. METHOD The study used a mixed methods design. Data were collected through a phone interview. RESULTS Eleven mothers of children aged 14-60 months participated. Most of the children (9/11) had a bilateral hearing loss, and two had an additional disability. Three themes emerged for hearing aid management experiences: audiology services, routines, and emotional challenges/supports. Parents had variable levels of confidence in their skills ranging from no confidence to complete confidence, with the greatest variability for three items: (a) using the listening tube to make sure that the sound quality of the hearing aid is good, (b) removing moisture from the earmold tubing, and (c) troubleshooting problems when your child's hearing aids are not working. All participants reported having consistent Internet access and had positive perceptions about the possibility of remote audiology services. CONCLUSIONS This study provided insights into hearing aid management experiences and perceptions of Spanish-speaking parents. Parents described variability for audiology services, routines for hearing aid use and care, and access to other parents of children with hearing loss. Spanish-speaking parents present additional elements in the hearing care process that need to be incorporated in planning. Remote services may be an opportunity to enhance access to support that could improve effectiveness of hearing aid management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
- National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Diego Guillen
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Carlos Muñoz
- National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management, Utah State University, Logan
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Muñoz K, Markle K, San Miguel GG, Twohig MP. Increasing Pediatric Hearing Aid Use: Considerations for Clinical Practice. Am J Audiol 2023; 32:665-670. [PMID: 37566885 DOI: 10.1044/2023_aja-23-00036] [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: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hearing aid use can be variable for young children, and inconsistent wear time can undermine spoken language development. This study explored the effectiveness of hearing aid data logging (DL) awareness and coaching sessions on increasing hours of hearing aid use. We also collected qualitative data on challenges participants experienced managing hearing aid use. METHOD We used a single-subject design that included three conditions, during a 6-week period, in the same order for each participant. Condition A was baseline, Condition B was DL monitoring alone, and Condition C was remote coaching calls plus DL monitoring. RESULTS Hours of hearing aid use increased for each child from baseline to the end of the study, ranging from 1.19 to 4.4 hr. Mothers reported that the coaching calls were beneficial and helped them identify and problem-solve issues. CONCLUSIONS Parents were able to increase hours of hearing aid use with DL awareness and coaching support. Tele-audiology offers an opportunity to provide parents with more frequent support that can be individualized based on their situation, challenges, and family needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Kali Markle
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
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Kuschke S, Moodie S, Kirubalingam K, O'Hagan R, Glista D. Parents' Perceptions of the Factors Influencing the Uptake of Remote Pediatric Hearing Aid Support: Development of a Conceptual Framework. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2023; 6:e47358. [PMID: 37279061 DOI: 10.2196/47358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To achieve effective integration of virtual care into family-centered audiology practices, participatory research methods, including parents as vital participants in the delivery of pediatric audiology care, should be considered. A better understanding of the barriers and facilitators influencing the adoption of virtual care for families is warranted. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework of the factors perceived to influence the adoption of remote pediatric hearing aid support among the parents of children with hearing loss. METHODS A total of 12 parents of children who wear hearing aids, between the ages of 0-17 years, were recruited to participate in group or individual interviews as part of the 6-step participatory-based concept mapping (CM) process. Data collection was specific to parents in a Canadian context. Analyses included multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. RESULTS The CM process resulted in 6 main themes, displayed in a cluster map according to their order of importance. These themes include access to timely, consistent care; technology considerations; convenience; child engagement; cost; and partnership considerations. Key underlying statements and subthemes are highlighted per theme. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study demonstrate the use of CM in participatory research with parents and as part of a family-centered care model. Future research should aim to investigate the factors that influence the uptake of remote hearing aid support in different contexts, for example, in low- to middle-income countries versus those in high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheila Moodie
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Keshinisuthan Kirubalingam
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Robin O'Hagan
- National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle Glista
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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DiFabio D, Moodie S, O’Hagan R, Pardal S, Glista D. Barriers and facilitators to paediatric caregivers' participation in virtual speech, language, and hearing services: A scoping review. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231216684. [PMID: 38033515 PMCID: PMC10687955 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231216684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Virtual care-related technologies are transforming the way in which health services are delivered. A growing number of studies support the use of virtual care in the field of audiology and speech-language pathology; however, there remains a need to identify and understand what influences caregiver participation within the care that is virtual and family-focused. This review aimed to identify, synthesize, and summarize the literature around the reported barriers and facilitators to caregiver participation in virtual speech/hearing assessment and/or intervention appointments for their child. Methods A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute manual for evidence synthesis. A search was conducted using six databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, ERIC, Nursing and Allied Health, and Web of Science to collect peer-reviewed studies of interest. Data was extracted according to a protocol published on Figshare, outlining a predefined data extraction form and search strategy. Results A variety of service delivery models and technology requirements were identified across the 48 included studies. Caregiver participation was found to vary across levels of attendance and involvement according to eight categories: Attitudes, child behavioral considerations, environment, opportunities, provider-family relationship, role in care process, support, and technology. Conclusions This review presents a description of the key categories reported to influence caregiver participation in virtual care appointments. Future research is needed to explore how the findings can be used within family-centered care models to provide strategic support benefiting the use and outcomes of virtual care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle DiFabio
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sheila Moodie
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- The National Centre for Audiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Robin O’Hagan
- The National Centre for Audiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Simrin Pardal
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle Glista
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- The National Centre for Audiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Muñoz K, Ortiz D, Bolinger C, Twohig MP. Intervention Research to Increase Pediatric Hearing Device Use: A Scoping Review. Am J Audiol 2022; 31:1312-1319. [PMID: 36041472 DOI: 10.1044/2022_aja-22-00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study is a scoping review examining interventions to increase hearing device use for children. METHOD Online databases were used to identify peer-reviewed journal articles published prior to November 1, 2021, yielding 1,288 after duplications were removed. Four articles met the inclusion criteria after articles were screened by title name and abstract and subsequent full-text screening of six articles. A qualitative analysis was conducted to identify features of the intervention studies related to the participants, design, intervention, key findings, and limitations. RESULTS The included studies were published between 1982 and 2021, and in all four studies, the children used hearing aids. All four of the studies used a longitudinal design to address hearing aid use problems, with the timeframe ranging from approximately 1 month to 6 months and had variable success in increasing use time. None of the studies included a protocol, such as counseling skills, for addressing internal challenges that interfere with hearing aid use. CONCLUSIONS Review of the limited research in this area found variable effectiveness for the interventions studied. There is an urgent need for research in this area to inform clinical practice and provide evidence-based interventions to address malleable factors that interfere with audibility for children who use hearing devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Diana Ortiz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Cameron Bolinger
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
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San Miguel GG, Muñoz K, Barrett TS, Twohig MP. Moderators and predictors in a parent hearing aid management eHealth program. Int J Audiol 2022; 62:410-417. [PMID: 35301941 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2048103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Consistent hearing aid use is essential for spoken language development of children who are hard of hearing. A recent randomised controlled trial of an eHealth hearing aid management education program found the intervention increased knowledge, perceptions, confidence, and device monitoring among parents of young children. Yet, it is not known which variables can be a point of emphasis to improve treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential moderators and predictors in the eHealth program.Design: Randomised controlled trialStudy Sample: Parents (N = 78) of children (42 months or younger) were randomised to the intervention or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group.Results: Results revealed that high psychological inflexibility, low parent activation, and low hours of hearing aid use may moderate device monitoring frequency and knowledge; parents in the intervention improved over time compared to the TAU group. Psychological inflexibility and parent activation also predicted treatment outcomes.Conclusion: The findings suggest the need to address parent psychological inflexibility related to hearing loss management, parents' role in their child's hearing aid management, and reported hours of hearing aid use as part of hearing aid service delivery. Identification of barriers to hearing aid management can assist audiologists in adjusting support to improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Muñoz
- Communication Disorders & Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
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Nichols N, Muñoz K, San Miguel GG, Twohig MP. eHealth Education and Support for Pediatric Hearing Aid Management: Parent Goals, Questions, and Challenges. Am J Audiol 2022; 31:189-203. [PMID: 35196126 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-21-00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate parent goals, questions, and challenges that emerged during coaching phone calls in an eHealth program designed to provide education and support for hearing aid management. METHOD Coaching phone calls were audio-recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analyzed for emergent themes within the categories of goals, questions, and challenges. RESULTS Emergent themes revealed that parent goals were focused on self-efficacy, routines, device care, and child development. Emergent themes for questions revealed that parents asked questions related to the device care, audiology appointments, confirmation of learning, and child development. For challenges, emergent themes revealed parents' own struggles (e.g., with emotions), issues related to working with their audiologist, child factors, and anticipated challenges. CONCLUSIONS The eHealth intervention allowed parents to raise questions and discuss their challenges in a supportive environment. Supportive accountability helped participants identify and address barriers to hearing aid management based on their priorities and current challenges. Providing supplemental learning support, in addition to routine audiology visits, can help parents develop more effective hearing aid management routines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Nichols
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
| | - Karen Muñoz
- Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education, Utah State University, Logan
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