Predictors of Hearing Aid Use in an Older, Community-Based, New Zealand Veteran Sample: Implications for Aural Rehabilitation

Abstract

Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic disability among older adults, with older adults the prime users of aural rehabilitation services. Ex-service personnel, in particular, frequently develop hearing-related disorders, and yet research on hearing aid utilisation in this group is sparse. The present study explored predictors of hearing aid use in a randomly selected sample of 1249 New Zealand veterans. Perceived benefit, performance and ease of use of aid(s) were related to increased use. Older veterans were more likely to use their aid(s) and greater overall hearing loss also increased adherence; however, inexperienced wearers were less adherent. Satisfaction with audiological service and overall satisfaction with the performance of the aid(s) was also linked to use. Health related variables were unrelated to frequency of aid use. These results highlight the need to provide ongoing support for all veterans, but in particular novice users, who become engaged in ongoing aural rehabilitation processes.