Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the findings of the auditory processing behavioral tests in patients with hearing loss before and after hearing aid fitting associated with auditory training. Methods: a descriptive analytical study that compared the findings of the auditory processing evaluation in 22 patients, from 19 to 62 years old, with mild or moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Tests used: Sound localization; Masking Level Difference; Alternate Disyllables Dichotic Listening Test; Melodic Frequency Pattern Test, Melodic Duration Pattern Test; Gaps in Noise; Speech in Noise Test. After the first tests, the patients were fitted with hearing aids and underwent eight auditory training sessions. The tests were retaken after a two-month period. Results: there was a predominance of females and a moderate degree hearing loss. In the comparison of the initial and final assessment situations, a statistically significant difference (p <0.05) was seen in all conditions studied, except for the Gaps in Noise and Masking Level Difference tests. Conclusion: the results have proven that the auditory training performed in adult users of hearing aids brought about significant improvements on the auditory processing skills, thus, modifying their auditory behavior. The improvement of the results of the auditory processing behavioral tests in the initial and final situations reflects the hearing functional improvement achieved.
Highlights
This study aimed at describing the findings of auditory processing behavioral tests in patients with hearing loss before and after the auditory fitting associated with auditory training
The sample was composed of 22 patients aged from 19 to 62 years, median of 54.50 years, interquartile range (IQR) 42.75 59.00; 17 (77%) were female, and five (23%) were male
Regarding the degree of hearing loss, there was a predominance of moderate bilateral, 73% of them on right ear (N = 16), and 64% on the left ear (N = 14)
Summary
The use of this device enables residual hearing to be stimulated, complaints related to auditory comprehension, even with the use of the hearing aids, are recurrent. Recent researches make evident the importance of auditory training (AT) associated with the use of the HAs to promote effective prognosis[3,4,5]. One of the principles of auditory training is to develop neuroplasticity, in order to generate changes in auditory morphology and performance after hearing stimulation, making it possible for the patient to resignify each sound they hear. The tasks developed to improve auditory perception enable structural and functional changes to occur, and make the learning process easier[6,7]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
