A Qualitative Investigation of Clients, Significant Others, and Clinicians’ Experiences of Using Wireless Microphone Systems to Manage Hearing Impairment

This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of adults with hearing impairment (HI), their significant others (SOs), and clinicians regarding the use and provision of wireless microphone systems (WMS). A qualitative descriptive methodology was used, with a total of 43 participants acr...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Audiology research (Pavia, Italy) Italy), 2022-10, Vol.12 (6), p.596-619
Main Authors: Scarinci, Nerina, Nickbakht, Mansoureh, Timmer, Barbra H., Ekberg, Katie, Cheng, Bonnie, Hickson, Louise
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
adult hearing impairment
Adults
Cochlear implants
decision making
Hearing aids
Hearing loss
Interviews
Listening
Microphones
Professionals
Questionnaires
rehabilitation
significant others
Transplants & implants
Verbal communication
Voice recognition
wireless microphone systems
Citations: Items that this one cites
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Summary:This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of adults with hearing impairment (HI), their significant others (SOs), and clinicians regarding the use and provision of wireless microphone systems (WMS). A qualitative descriptive methodology was used, with a total of 43 participants across three groups: (1) 23 adults with HI who used WMS; (2) 7 SOs of adults who used WMS; and (3) 13 clinicians who provided WMSs to adults with HI. Participants completed an individual semi-structured in-depth interview to explore their experiences, with the data analysed using thematic analysis. The analysis revealed five themes encompassing the perceptions and experiences of WMSs: (1) with experience and clear expectations, users believe that WMS can make a difference; (2) the trial and decision-making process is important; (3) clients’ experiences using WMS; (4) issues with WMS and technology; and (5) users require ongoing training and support to use WMS. These findings highlight the complexities of providing and using WMS with adults with HI. However, clients, SOs, and clinicians all reported that, with appropriate experience, expectations, training, and support, WMS can make a real difference in listening and communicating in different situations. There is also an opportunity to involve SOs more throughout the rehabilitation process.
ISSN:2039-4349
2039-4330
2039-4349
DOI:10.3390/audiolres12060059