Validation of a Self-Fitting Method for Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids.

The study tested a Bose prototype hearing aid and a specific two-wheel self-fitting interface, so it does not show that all over-the-counter hearing aids or self-fitting methods work. Participants had mild-to-moderate hearing loss, were mostly new hearing aid users, and mostly had sensorineural hearing loss, so results may not apply to severe losses, conductive losses, or experienced users. Assignment was alternating, not described as random, and the two groups used different interfaces, so group differences may reflect interface features as well as fitting method. Star ratings and A/B comparisons happened after the device was muted, so memory or preference for one's own settings may have influenced those field judgments. Some data were missing or unusable: an iPod malfunctioned, two self-group participants were removed from field analyses due to fitting-system errors, and several questionnaire responses could not be used. Maximum output was fixed rather than set individually, although the authors state this probably did not cause discomfort.

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Do not conclude that all over-the-counter hearing aids can be self-fitted successfully. This tested a Bose prototype with a specific two-wheel interface in adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, mostly new users, and the authors state the conclusions do not extend to other self-fit methods.