Binaural Amplification – Does Technology Matter?

Abstract

Hearing impairment is a reduction in the hearing sensitivity which will cause deterioration in the speech abilities (Stach,1997). Hearing aids, in particular, binaural amplification are useful in the restoration of speech perception, in addition to perception of environmental sounds, promoting improvement in communication skills according to Markides (1977). The present study aimed at comparing the performance of the individuals with hearing loss, in terms of improved audibility, understanding and quality of speech using binaural analog hearing aids (AA), binaural digital hearing aids (DD), binaural amplification with analog and digital hearing aids in opposite ears (AD). Results indicated no significant difference between the DD and the AD conditions though the mean performance in the DD condition was higher than that of the AD condition, for both the SRS and the quality rating of speech. It is implied from the present study that the individuals with hearing impairment can be suggested to use analog hearing aid in one ear and digital hearing aid in the opposite ear till they can afford for binaural digital hearing aids considering the expensive nature of the digital hearing aids.