Improving confidence and success with over-the-counter hearing aids through a new rehabilitation approach

Self-efficacy-based Auditory Rehabilitation to Optimize Real-world Outcomes With Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: A Pilot Study

Not applicable Interventional University of Arkansas · NCT06560918

This study is testing a new program to see if it can help people feel more confident and successful when using over-the-counter hearing aids.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment27 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Arkansas Academic / other
Locations1 site (Little Rock, Arkansas)
Trial IDNCT06560918 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-efficacy-based auditory rehabilitation (SEBAR) program in enhancing the confidence and success of individuals using over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Participants will undergo two appointments: the first to assess their baseline hearing without aids, and the second after a week of using OTC hearing aids, during which they will complete questionnaires to measure their experiences and outcomes. The study will compare the results from both appointments to determine the impact of SEBAR on participants' willingness to adopt and satisfaction with OTC hearing aids. The research will be conducted at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 85 with non-fluctuating, adult-onset, bilateral mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss who have no prior experience with hearing aids.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of outer or middle ear pathologies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss by enhancing their confidence and satisfaction with OTC hearing aids.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific SEBAR approach may be novel, similar interventions focusing on self-efficacy and hearing aid use have shown promise in previous studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Between 18 - 85 years old

  * Non-fluctuating, adult-onset, bilateral mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss (average hearing thresholds for 500-3000Hz between 25- and 60-dB HL and no more than 10 dB difference between ears).
  * No previous experience with hearing aids
  * English as their first language with good self-reported health

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any reported history of outer or middle ear pathologies • No participants will be excluded based on their gender, race/ethnicity.

Where this trial is running

Little Rock, Arkansas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hearing Loss, Sensorineural
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.