Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

6-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Au.D.

Program

Audiology

Advisor

Barbara Weinstein

Subject Categories

Speech and Hearing Science | Speech Pathology and Audiology

Keywords

over-the-counter hearing aids, hearing loss, perceived hearing difficulties, hearing devices

Abstract

Untreated hearing loss oftentimes has significant adverse effects on the quality of life of older adults. The associations include, but are not limited to loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and a decrease in cognitive function. Hearing aids significantly improve audibility, social interactions, and decrease feelings of loneliness or isolation. However, despite technological advances, and evidence of positive outcomes associated with hearing aid use, uptake and continued use of hearing aids remain low. Accessibility and affordability are considered barriers to uptake. Purchasing a prescription hearing aid from an audiologist is the traditional approach to receiving an amplification device, but the advent of over the counter (OTC) devices makes hearing intervention potentially more accessible and/or affordable. OTC hearing aids provide an alternative option for adults who experience symptoms of self-rated mild to moderate hearing difficulty, yet confusion abounds regarding OTC vs. prescription hearing aids. My goal is to design a toolkit to assist persons with hearing difficulty in navigating the OTC devices that are becoming increasingly available. This comprehensive guide is designed to assist persons with hearing loss make educated decisions regarding their hearing healthcare and provide the skills needed to use OTC hearing aids.

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