Investigating hearing aid use with smartphone app integration in older adults

Abstract Background The growing use of smartphones and the widespread availability of hearing aid applications have made smartphone-based hearing technologies a more accessible alternative or supplement to traditional hearing aids. Objective This study aimed to examine how older adults who use hearing aids with smartphone connectivity engage with the associated mobile applications, to explore their perceptions of these features, and to investigate potential differences based on gender. Methods A total of 27 participants aged between 55 and 86 years took part in the study. Participants completed a questionnaire consisting of 16 items: 8 yes/no questions assessing their use of smartphone and hearing aids smartphone applications (HASAs) features, and 8 items rated on a 5-point Likert scale evaluating their opinions about the HASA. Results A moderate positive correlation was found between the experience of using hearing aids with smartphone connectivity and the perceived adequacy of HASA features. Additionally, a strong positive correlation was observed between the frequent use of the HASA and the perception that it improves quality of life. Conclusıons The findings of this study suggest that older adults who use hearing aids with smartphone connectivity perceive HASAs as beneficial, particularly when used frequently. The positive correlations identified indicate that familiarity with and regular use of these applications are associated with greater satisfaction regarding their features and a perceived improvement in quality of life. These results underscore the importance of promoting digital literacy and providing targeted counseling to older adults in order to enhance their effective use of hearing aid technologies.