A Study on Satisfaction Levels among Hearing Aid Users in Gangetic Plains

Introduction Outcome assessments have emerged as an effective method for determining whether or not hearing aids are working to achieve positive results in rehabilitating the hearing impaired. Present study aims to assess the satisfaction level of clientele using hearing aids. Material and Methods One hundred and fourteen (114) hearing handicapped patients, fitted with government-provided hearing aids at various clinics spread over Gangetic plains were included in this prospective observational study for outcome analysis. Follow up was done at 2 weeks and 45 days when they were further motivated to continue using the aid, comfortable fitting of mould was ensured along with minor trouble shooting. Four and half months later, their satisfaction level was assessed by analysing their response to Clientele Satisfaction Questionnaire. Results Fifty percent of the patients were motivated by their family members to try the aid whereas 50% were self motivated. Better communication with family members and immediate social circle was the common motive. Majority (85%) reported high level of satisfaction in terms of hearing benefit. Patients with severe degree of hearing loss were more satisfied and used the aid for longer duration in a day. Handling the aid was not as much of a problem as tolerating the noise produced by aid itself. Cost of battery was a concern for 80% of our clientele. Conclusion Proper fitting of hearing aid improved the quality of life of majority of our hearing handicapped clientele by overcoming their psychosocial problems.