PP413 - Evaluating the Efficacy of Assistive Technologies in Speech Perception in Noise for Individuals with Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Clinical Trial

Abstract:
This study evaluates the efficacy of assistive devices, including hearing aids, the digital remote microphone system EduMic, and the "Live Listen" smartphone feature, in improving speech perception in noise for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. This randomized, double-blind clinical study found that EduMic and "Live Listen" significantly enhance speech perception in challenging environments compared to hearing aids alone. These findings suggest that assistive listening technologies can provide valuable support for traditional amplification, improving auditory accessibility and quality of life for users.

Summary:
Objective
To investigate the efficacy of hearing aids, EduMic, and "Live Listen" in enhancing speech perception in noise for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss.

Rationale
Individuals with hearing loss face challenges in environments with high auditory demands, where background noise disrupts speech perception. Assistive devices such as EduMic and "Live Listen" have been studied as potential complementary solutions to reduce these barriers and facilitate more efficient and clear communication.

Methodology
This randomized, double-blind clinical study was conducted with 22 participants using a crossover design. Each participant was assessed under three conditions: (1) conventional hearing aids (control); (2) hearing aids + EduMic; and (3) hearing aids + "Live Listen" on a smartphone. Speech perception in noise was measured using the HINT Brazil (Hearing in Noise Test), and participants also reported qualitative perceptions of sound quality with each device.

Results
Average correct response rates indicated that both EduMic and "Live Listen" significantly outperformed hearing aids alone. Compared to the hearing aid alone, EduMic achieved an average of 60.5% correct responses, and "Live Listen" achieved 71.6%, whereas the hearing aid alone achieved 37.3%. Statistical analysis confirmed the significance of these differences, highlighting the effectiveness of additional assistive devices in noisy environments. No significant differences were found between EduMic and "Live Listen."

Limitations
The study was limited by a small sample size, which may impact the generalizability of the results. Additionally, while the HINT Brazil test effectively measures speech perception in noise, it may not fully capture real-life listening scenarios that users face daily. Further research with a larger, more diverse sample and varied testing environments is recommended to confirm these findings.

Conclusion
The findings support that both EduMic and "Live Listen" provide advantages over hearing aids alone in complex auditory environments. Including these assistive technologies represents a viable option to enhance auditory accessibility in challenging situations. The results reinforce the need for personalized recommendations for hearing loss patients, promoting more comprehensive auditory rehabilitation.