The effects of a pre-fitting intervention on hearing aid benefit: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pre-fitting user-controlled hearing aid adjustments. Study design: Thirty-nine first time hearing aid users with mild to moderate hearing losses were randomly assigned to a pre-fitting intervention group (n = 19) or a control group (n = 20). The pre-fitting intervention consisted of three weekly visits, where the hearing aid candidate adjusted the amplification of an experimental hearing aid to preferred settings, and wore the aid between the visits. After the pre-fitting intervention phase, both groups received conventional hearing aid fittings. Standardized questionnaires (HHIE, ECHO, SADL, HADS) were administered before and after the pre-fitting intervention, after the conventional hearing aid fittings, and at a one-year follow-up. In addition, the IOI-HA questionnaire was administered immediately after the conventional hearing aid fitting and at the one-year follow-up. Hearing aid success was evaluated by an independent audiologist at the one-year follow-up appointment. Results: The pre-fitting intervention phase showed positive effects for the intervention group but not for the control group on activity limitation, participation restriction and expectations. However, the intervention in its current version had no lasting effects beyond the control group after conventional hearing aid fitting or after a year. Both groups showed mostly successful hearing aid fittings, improved psychosocial well-being and quality of life, and reduced participation restriction. Conclusion: Only short-term effects were found and further research is needed to investigate for which individuals the intervention could be effective.