Applications of Direct-To-Consumer Hearing Devices for Adults With Hearing Loss: A Review
Clinical Interventions in Aging
Manchaiah, V., Taylor, B., et al. (2017).
Clinical Interventions in Aging, 12, 859-871.
This systematic review investigates the electroacoustic characteristics and satisfaction outcomes of personal sound amplification products (PSAPs), direct-mail hearing aids, and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Not stated
Up to December 2016
Peer-reviewed studies and non-peer reviewed reports of all designs
13
One study found that adults with hearing loss who purchase a direct-mail hearing aid online reported lower satisfaction with their hearing aid than adults who receive their device from a hearing aid center. Direct-mail hearing aids were found to provide significantly less real world benefit despite consumer belief that devices from either source could provide the same benefit.
For older adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, over-the-counter hearing devices provide some benefit such as improved hearing in quiet and in noise, improved communication, and improved activities of daily living.
When comparing the test box to simulated real ear measurements of personal sound amplification products (PSAPS), the included studies found highly variable electroacoustic characteristics. Despite being labeled as having an OSPL90 of 110- to 120-dB SPL, some PSAP devices measured 130-dB SPL. Many of the devices reviewed demonstrated peak gains and output responses measuring 1,400-2,000 Hz.
