RP307 - Bridging Language Gaps in Hearing Assessments: Exploring Non-Linguistic Auditory Markers

Abstract:
This study examines spatial and spectro-temporal resolution as non-linguistic markers of hearing function in English- and Spanish-speaking individuals with hearing loss. Twenty participants, including normal-hearing and hearing-impaired listeners, completed speech perception tests and non-linguistic auditory assessments. Results show that spatial and spectro-temporal resolution impairments increase with hearing loss severity, with Spanish speakers exhibiting superior word recognition. These findings suggest that non-linguistic measures can provide objective insights into auditory deficits across languages, potentially enhancing diagnostic accuracy and healthcare equity for diverse linguistic groups by reducing reliance on language-dependent assessments.

Summary:
A lack of culturally and linguistically tailored hearing assessments limits equitable access to healthcare for non-English speakers, particularly those with limited English proficiency. This study examines the relationship between spatial and spectro-temporal resolution and speech perception in English- and Spanish-speaking individuals with hearing loss (HL). Spatial and spectro-temporal resolution are vital auditory mechanisms for processing complex acoustic signals, which are negatively impacted by HL, leading to challenges in speech comprehension and sound localization. By assessing these perceptual and processing mechanisms, we aim to develop alternative methods to evaluate hearing function without relying solely on language-based tools, promoting a more inclusive approach to auditory assessments.

Learner Objectives
The study’s primary goal was to determine if non-linguistic markers, specifically spatial and spectro-temporal resolution, could correlate with speech perception outcomes in individuals with hearing loss across different language backgrounds. We hypothesized that these markers would offer alternative insights into auditory impairments beyond language-based assessments.

Methods
This cross-sectional study included 20 participants: 10 normal-hearing controls and 10 individuals with HL, with five Spanish and five English speakers in each group. Speech perception was assessed in both languages using the Word Intelligibility by Noise (WIN) test. Spectro-temporal resolution was measured using the Spectral-temporally Modulated Ripple Test (SMRT) and Random Gap Detection Test (RGDT). All tests were presented at sensation levels 15–30 dB above the participants’ 2 kHz hearing threshold. Spatial resolution was assessed by presenting broadband noise bursts (0.5 to 20 kHz) from 47 loudspeakers positioned across azimuths and elevations.

Results
Preliminary findings show that spatial and spectro-temporal resolution impairments correlate with increased HL severity. Spanish speakers displayed better word recognition than English speakers, even when accounting for HL severity. Spectral and temporal gap detection worsened with increasing HL, affecting speech perception scores. Although spatial resolution was reduced in hearing-impaired participants, it did not significantly predict speech perception, suggesting that spatial hearing alone may not fully influence language comprehension in complex listening environments.

Conclusions
Non-linguistic auditory markers, such as spatial and spectro-temporal resolution, could improve hearing assessments for HL patients, providing an objective, language-independent approach. These findings align with prior research showing Spanish speakers outperforming English speakers in speech-in-noise tasks, regardless of HL severity, highlighting the need to consider linguistic background in auditory assessments. Non-linguistic metrics may help identify auditory deficits overlooked by language-based tools, fostering a more inclusive diagnostic approach. These insights support the development of culturally sensitive assessments, enhancing healthcare accessibility and treatment for diverse linguistic groups.

Brief Summary of Clinical Takeaways:
The clinical takeaway for this session is that non-linguistic auditory markers, such as spatial and spectro-temporal resolution, can enhance hearing assessments by offering objective, language-independent measures. This approach may improve diagnostic accuracy and healthcare equity, especially for non-English-speaking populations with hearing loss.