Document Type : Original article
Authors
1
PhD in Audiology, Associate Professor, Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Research and Education Network in Audiology and Speech Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2
Student Research Committee, MSc Student in Audiology, Audiology Department, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
10.22037/sjrm.2024.117329.3290
Abstract
Title: effect of unilateral moderate to profound hearing loss on spatial auditory processing skills in adults
Abstract
Background and Aim: Unilateral hearing loss, despite good speech intelligibility in quiet environments, can lead to significant challenges in noisy settings. This is due to the deprivation of binaural spatial cues, which are crucial for sound localization, lateralization, and speech comprehension in noisy environments. Individuals with unilateral hearing loss are thus suspected of having spatial auditory processing disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of moderate to profound unilateral hearing loss on spatial auditory processing skills in adults using validated self-assessment questionnaires.
Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive analytical study enrolled 60 participants: 30 adults with moderate to profound unilateral hearing loss (target group) and 30 adults with normal hearing in both ears (control group). Spatial auditory processing skills were assessed using the Persian versions of the Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale (p-SSQ) and the Spatial Hearing Questionnaire (p-SHQ). Independent t-tests were used for group comparisons, and Spearman's correlation test was applied to examine the relationship between the two questionnaires, considering the non-normal data distribution.
Results: The results indicated significant differences in total and subscale scores on both questionnaires between the target and control groups. The target group (individuals with unilateral hearing loss) demonstrated poorer performance in spatial auditory processing compared to the control group. A strong correlation was found between the total and subscale scores of the two questionnaires, suggesting consistency in the findings.
Conclusion: Moderate to profound unilateral hearing loss significantly impacts spatial auditory processing skills. This study provides evidence for the challenges individuals with unilateral hearing loss face in auditory processing tasks, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support to enhance their listening abilities.
Keywords: Auditory Processing, Spatial Hearing, Unilateral Hearing Loss
Keywords
Main Subjects
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