Speech Intelligibility in Hearing Aid users with and without Auditory Training

Abstract

Background: Intelligibility of speech refers to the accuracy with which a normal listener can understand a spoken word or phrase. Speech is often disrupted in congenital hearing loss but with assistive devices and therapeutic approaches some hearing impaired children develop intelligible speech. Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study was to compare the speech intelligibility in digital hearing aid users with and without auditory training. Methodology: The research was analytical comparative cross sectional in nature. The study looked at 4 to 6 year old 20 children with severe to profound hearing impairment by using digital hearing aids in both ears. One group of 10 children received speech therapy with auditory training and the other group of 10 children received speech therapy without auditory training (lip reading) for at least two years. The speech sample of both groups was taken through connected speech. The sample was audio recorded. Inter rater validity was used and intelligibility was marked employing a 5 point rating scale. Results: The results with Auditory Training on conversation obtained a mean score (3.5) and standard deviation was (.85). With lip reading the mean score was (2.3) and standard deviation was (.42). Conclusion: On the basis of the present research, it is concluded that auditory training improves speech intelligibility with hearing aids in severe to profound hearing loss. Keywords: Intelligibility of speech, auditory training, lip reading, hearing impairment.