The Impact of Listening with Directional Microphone Technology on Self-Perceived Localization Disabilities and Handicaps

Abstract

The chief complaint of individuals with hearing impairment is difficulty hearing in noise, with directional microphones emerging as the most capable remediation. Our purpose was to determine the impact of directional microphones on localization disability and concurrent handicap. Fifty-seven individuals participated unaided and then in groups of 19, using omni-directional microphones, directional-microphones, or toggle-switch equipped amplification. The outcome measure was a localization disabilities and handicaps questionnaire. Comparisons between the unaided group versus the aided groups, and the directional-microphone groups versus the other two aided groups revealed no significant differences. None of the microphone schemes either increased or decreased self-perceived localization disability or handicap. Objective measures of localization ability are warranted and if significance is noted, clinicians should caution patients when moving in their environment. If no significant objective differences exist, in light of the subjective findings in this investigation concern over decreases in quality of life and safety with directional microphones need not be considered.

Directional Benefit Is Present with Audiovisual Stimuli: Limiting Ceiling Effects

“…The discrepancy between laboratory and real-world performance has prompted many researchers to suggest that laboratory designs overestimate directional benefit in everyday listening (Cord et al, 2002;Compton-Conley et al, 2004;Ruscetta et al, 2007). In 2010, Wu and Bentler proposed that access to visual cues may be a key factor in this discrepancy.…”