Speech-in-noise recognition using a hearing test in Spanish: Data from a normal-hearing population

Abstract

Background and objective

The Speech in Noise Test in Spanish (Prueba Auditiva de Habla en Ruido en Español, PAHRE) is a recently developed test not only measures speech reception thresholds in noise but also assesses the decline in intelligibility across various signal-to-noise ratio values.

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the speech-in-noise recognition ability of normal-hearing subjects using this speech-in-noise test in Spanish. The relationship between age and speech recognition in environments with background is assessed, as well as the possible benefits of the Lombard effect for rehabilitation.

Material and methods

A total of 143 normal-hearing participants were categorized into five age groups (18–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, >70 years). The participants underwent a comprehensive 30-min hearing assessment, which included a battery of audiological tests, with a particular focus on the Speech in Noise Test in Spanish.

Results

The results enabled the establishment of psychometric functions illustrating decreases in intelligibility across various signal-to-noise ratio values. Furthermore, reference values for speech-in-noise recognition thresholds were delineated for each age group.

Conclusion

The findings underscored the efficacy of test in assessing signal-to-noise ratio loss within the Spanish-speaking population, facilitating the comparison of age-related declines in speech-in-noise recognition. The results also highlight the potential advantages of incorporating the Lombard effect into speech-in-noise tests.