Feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial on the effect of motivational interviewing in facilitating hearing aid use

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) on the effect of motivational interviewing (MI) in facilitating hearing aid use. Methods used and their results are presented in the 3 sections below: (1) A cross-sectional survey where a questionnaire, including the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids was posted to all patients fitted with hearing aids at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, between 2011 and 2012 (N=1874). 1023 questionnaires were completed and returned (response rate of 55%). 29% of responders did not use their hearing aids on a regular basis (i.e., used them less than 4 hours per day). (2) 220 patients who reported using their hearing aid(s) less than 4 hours per day in the above survey were invited to take part in a pilot single-blind RCT. 37 were enrolled and randomised to MI combined with hearing aid adjustments (n=20) or hearing aid adjustments only (n=17). The results showed that it was feasible to deliver MI for facilitating hearing aid use. Hearing aid use as measured via data logging 1 month after interventions favoured the MI group. (3) A qualitative enquiry embedded in the above pilot RCT was conducted. 34 out of 37 participants underwent in-depth interviews. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed. Five themes were identified in relation to participants’ perspectives about the key components of the research programme which influenced their decision about using their hearing aids. Conclusion: Conducting an RCT on the effect of MI in facilitating hearing aid use in people who do not use their hearing aids is feasible and that MI combined with audiology standard care may have positive effects on hearing aid use.