Speech audiometry in noise: SNR Loss per age-group in normal hearing subjects

Abstract

ObjectivesThe present study aimed to determine normal SNR values per age group for the 50% speech reception threshold in noise (SNR Loss) on the VRB (Vocale Rapide dans le Bruit: rapid speech in noise) test. Material and MethodsTwo hundred patients underwent pure-tone threshold and VRB speech-in-noise audiometry. Six ages groups were distinguished: 20–30, 30–40, 40–50, 50–60, 60–70 and>70 years. All subjects had normal hearing for age according to ISO 7029. SNR Loss was measured according to age group. ResultsMean SNR Loss ranged from −0.37dB in the youngest age group (20–30 years) to +6.84dB in the oldest (>70 years). Range and interquartile range increased with age: 3.66 and 1.49dB respectively for 20–30 year-olds; 6 and 3.5dB for>70 year-olds. Linear regression between SNR Loss and age showed a coefficient R2 of 0.83. ConclusionThe present study reports SNR Loss values per age group in normal-hearing subjects (ISO 7029), confirming that SNR Loss increases with age. Scatter also increased with age, suggesting that other age-related factors combine with inner-ear aging to impair hearing in noise.