Hearing Aid Use for Children With Hearing Loss: A Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to complete a comprehensive literature review related to hearing aid use during early childhood. Method A rapid evidence assessment was completed to provide a summary of information published or presented between 1980 and 2012. A qualitative assessment was completed for all eligible material, emergent themes related to hearing aid use were synthesized, and a narrative summary was generated. Results Eight publications, one conference proceeding, and one presentation were identified. Three themes emerged from the review: hours of hearing aid use, factors influencing use, and suggestions about how to increase use from parents and professionals. Conclusion Minimal research has been done related to hearing aid use for young children with hearing loss. Further research is needed to address influences such as quality of fit, parent factors, multiple disabilities, and cultural differences and to investigate effective strategies for increasing hearing aid use.