Importance of Improving Hearing Consistently Predicts Positive Hearing Aid Outcomes in First-Time Users: Insights From a 6-Month Longitudinal Trial

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore, among first-time hearing aid users, (a) modifiable predictors of self-reported hearing aid satisfaction and benefit, (b) how hearing aid satisfaction and benefit progress with time throughout the first 24 weeks after fitting, and (c) motivation (intention and self-efficacy) and volition (action planning and coping planning) for hearing aid use and their changes postprovision. METHOD: Fifty-four first-time hearing aid users completed questionnaires on various aspects before and after fitting. Before fitting, assessments included personality, lifestyle, expectations, reason for help-seeking, importance of hearing improvement, as well as motivation and volition. After fitting, participants periodically evaluated hearing aid benefit, satisfaction, motivation, and volition over 24 weeks. RESULTS: The importance of improving hearing was the primary modifiable predictor of hearing aid outcomes. Participants reported moderate to high satisfaction and benefit at 2 weeks. Benefit levels remained stable over 24 weeks, while satisfaction showed slight improvements. The intention to use hearing aids was high before fitting, while action planning and coping planning were lower and remained unchanged postfitting. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that the intrinsic value of improving hearing is crucial for positive outcomes. This, combined with the lower scores for planning and coping with challenges of consistent hearing aid use, highlights the need for awareness and educational tools. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL: https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.32012565.