Speech Perception in Noise and Listening Effort of Older Adults With Nonlinear Frequency Compression Hearing Aids.

Only 17 participants were tested, so the findings are limited by a small sample. The study had no long-term acclimatization period. Participants had symmetrical hearing loss no worse than 90 dB HL and four-frequency averages from 26 to 69 dB HL, so it may not apply to more severe or asymmetric hearing loss. All participants spoke American English and passed a cognitive screen, so results may not transfer to other languages or to people with cognitive impairment. Testing occurred in a sound booth at a personal 50% correct signal-to-noise ratio, which may differ from everyday listening. Non-linear frequency compression settings were manufacturer defaults, not individualized tuning. Benefit varied widely: recognition improved for 9 of 17 participants and recall improved for 11 of 17 participants. Recognition benefit and recall benefit were not correlated, so one measure did not predict the other.

The supplied text does not state author conflicts of interest or a sponsor role. The publication types list NIH extramural and non-U.S. government research support.

Do not conclude that non-linear frequency compression helps all older adults with hearing loss. Average recognition and recall improved, but recognition improved for only 9 of 17 participants, recall improved for 11 of 17 participants, and benefit depended on hearing loss slope and age.