mHealth technologies to improve hearing aid use and benefit in first-time hearing aid users

Abstract

Background: Despite hearing loss affecting 1 in 6 of the UK population, approximately 20% of patients do not use their hearing aid. Our previous work developed a home-delivered interactive multimedia education programme (C2Hear) using reusable learning objects (RLOs). However, this intervention is a ‘one size fits all’ and has limited tailoring capabilities. The present research will repurpose the C2Hear RLOs into short ‘bite-sized’ m-RLOs that are tailored to individuals’ needs, and incorporate greater user interactivity and self-evaluation. Methods:   We will identify the individualised components of the m-RLOs using (i) the COM-B model to classify each m-RLO to a set of domains (e.g. knowledge, physical skills, social influences) necessary to facilitate hearing aid use, and (ii) an ecological approach using a Think Aloud analysis involving existing hearing aid users (n=15), using thematic analysis to identify key themes/words for assigning ‘tags’ to each m-RLO. Combining both the theoretical and ecological approaches will inform the development of a self-evaluation filter aid, which will act as an interface to enable individualised tailoring. Expected results: This work will lead to a theoretically and ecologically grounded suite of RLOs which will be delivered via mobile phone app. Current stage of work: Mapping of the existing C2Hear content against the COM-B is underway. Discussion: Whilst the C2Hear RLOs yielded improvement in hearing aid use in our earlier trial, the repurposing of these using the COM-B model is likely to yield additional patient benefit due to the more personalised and tailored delivery by mobile phone app.