Hearing for Communication and Resident Engagement

Aim 1: Satisfaction with Social Participation assessed through surveys,Aim 2: Hearing-Specific Health-Related Quality of Life assessed through surveys

Amplification is a well-established, evidence-based front-line treatment for those with
 impaired communication secondary to Age Related Hearing Loss (ARHL). ARHL is the most
 prevalent cause of communication impairment among older adults. The challenge in treating
 ARHL is identifying a care model that effectively promotes adherence to
 individualized-treatment recommendations allowing the end-user to self-manage hearing loss
 with appropriate support. This proposal compares the two most common models of care for ARHL
 provided to adults in assisted living/personal care communities. The Consult Model (i.e.,
 usual care) is an acute care strategy, relying on a monthly Audiologist visit to the
 facility.
 
 The Engage Model is a chronic care approach to support hearing loss self-management of ARHL.
 Engage includes (a) hearing screening for all residents, (b) an individualized communication
 plan for those with an identified hearing loss (e.g., one-to-one, group, telephone,
 television plans, hearing aid trouble shooting, communication strategies, etc.), (c)
 provision of simple, non-custom amplifiers, (d) referral to audiology if needed, and (e)
 ongoing support provided by trained personnel (Communication Facilitator) under the
 supervision of the audiologist.