Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Formative Research
Date Submitted: Jan 27, 2023
Date Accepted: Jul 4, 2023
mHealth hearing aid acclimatization and support program in low-income communities: a feasibility study
ABSTRACT
Background:
mHealth technologies can support hearing aid management, acclimatization, and use. This study developed, implemented, and pilot-tested the feasibility of a mHealth acclimatization and support program for first-time hearing aid users. The program was facilitated by community health workers (CHWs) in low-income communities in South Africa.
Objective:
This study aimed to improve hearing aid use by providing basic information on functioning, use, care, troubleshooting, and motivational support.
Methods:
Twenty messages were sent by CHWs over 45 days as voice notes and graphical illustrations on WhatsApp or via text messages. Participants were contacted telephonically three times, and via open-ended questionnaires 45 days and six months post hearing aid fitting to describe their experiences. Responses were analyzed with inductive thematic analysis.
Results:
Of the 19 participants (79% female; mean age 72 years), most (79%) received the program via WhatsApp. The program was described as helpful and informative at both follow-ups. Three participants indicated that not all their questions about hearing aids were answered and five others had minor hearing aid issues (e.g., feedback, pain). However, CHWs successfully addressed all these issues.
Conclusions:
A mHealth acclimatization and support program is feasible, and potentially assists hearing aid acclimatization and use for first-time users in low-income communities.
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