Megan Knoetze, Vinaya Manchaiah, Kayla Cormier, Carly Schimmel, Anu Sharma, De Wet Swanepoel
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the gain provided by self-fitting over-the-counter (SF-OTC) hearing aids compared to clinical NAL-NL2 targets, the differences between various FDA-approved SF-OTC devices, and potential changes in gain over time.
Methods: Two experiments were conducted: (1) a cross-sectional comparison of six SF-OTC hearing aids (n = 43) and (2) a longitudinal evaluation of gain within five days of self-fitting and four additional time points (n = 15). Real-ear measurements (REMs) were used to measure gain.
Results: SF-OTC hearing aid gain corresponded with 10 dB SPL but not 5 dB SPL criteria from NAL-NL2 targets. Differences between NAL-NL2 targets and gain did not differ significantly between devices. There were no significant changes in gain over time for any input level.
Conclusions: SF-OTC hearing aids generally provide user-selected gain levels lower than clinical targets, particularly at higher frequencies. The gain remains stable over time, indicating limited user adjustment after initial fitting. OTC hearing aid manufacturers should consider implementing fitting algorithms that allow for gradual user acclimatization.
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The mission of Audiology Research is to publish contemporary, ethical, clinically relevant scientific researches related to the basic science and clinical aspects of the auditory and vestibular system and diseases of the ear that can be used by clinicians, scientists and specialists to improve understanding and treatment of patients with audiological and neurotological disorders.
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