Hearing for Communication and Resident Engagement

Study Summary

Amplification is a well-established, evidence-based front-line treatment for those with impaired communication secondary to Age Related Hearing Loss (ARHL). ARHL is the most prevalent cause of communication impairment among older adults. The challenge in treating ARHL is identifying a care model that effectively promotes adherence to individualized-treatment recommendations allowing the end-user to self-manage hearing loss with appropriate support. This proposal compares the two most common models of care for ARHL provided to adults in assisted living/personal care communities. The Consult Model (i.e., usual care) is an acute care strategy, relying on a monthly Audiologist visit to the facility. The Engage Model is a chronic care approach to support hearing loss self-management of ARHL. Engage includes (a) hearing screening for all residents, (b) an individualized communication plan for those with an identified hearing loss (e.g., one-to-one, group, telephone, television plans, hearing aid trouble shooting, communication strategies, etc.), (c) provision of simple, non-custom amplifiers, (d) referral to audiology if needed, and (e) ongoing support provided by trained personnel (Communication Facilitator) under the supervision of the audiologist.

Primary Outcome

PROMIS Satisfaction with Participation in Discretionary Social Activities SF7a self-reported contentment with leisure interests and relationships with friends. T- scores are provided ranging from 27 to 65.6 where higher scores indicate more satisfaction (50 indicates the population mean with a standard deviation of 10).

Conditions Studied

Interventions

• OTHER Consult Model
• OTHER Engage Model

Study Locations (1)