A randomized trial of supported versus self-fitting over-the-counter hearing aids in older adults. Download PDF Abstract Over-the-counter hearing aids may improve access to hearing care, but the level of support older adults need remains uncertain. In this multicenter, three-arm, pragmatic randomized controlled trial at ten community health centers in three Chinese cities, 322 adults aged 50 years or older with untreated bilateral hearing loss were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to self-fitting ( n = 108), primary care physician support ( n = 107), or remote audiologist support ( n = 107).
Outcome assessors and statisticians were masked. The primary outcome was hearing aid benefit on the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit at 3 months. Here we show that both supported models produce greater benefit than self-fitting, with adjusted mean differences of 12.20 (95% confidence interval 7.18 to 17.22) for remote support and 9.71 (4.74 to 14.67) for primary care physician support.
Hearing-related quality of life, satisfaction, speech recognition and device use also favor supported care, and differences persist at 12 months. One participant in the self-fitting group died of stroke. No intervention-related serious adverse events occurred.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical decisions and treatment options.
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