EBP Compendium: Summary of Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Counseling-Based Adult Group Aural Rehabilitation Programs: A Systematic Review of the Evidence
Hawkins, D. B.
(2005).
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 16(7), 485-493.
Indicators of Review Quality:
|
The review addresses a clearly focused question
| Yes |
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Criteria for inclusion of studies are provided
| Yes |
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Search strategy is described in sufficient detail for replication
| No |
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Included studies are assessed for study quality
| Yes |
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Quality assessments are reproducible
| Yes |
Description: This is a review of randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, or nonintervention cohort designs investigating the effectiveness of group aural rehabilitation (AR) interventions for adults with hearing impairment.
Question(s) Addressed:
Do adult group AR interventions that focus on counseling and communication strategies provide measurable benefits over the short or long term in benefit/satisfaction with hearing aids, adjustment to hearing loss, or perceived hearing handicap?
Population: Adults with hearing impairment.
Intervention/Assessment: Counseling-based group aural rehabilitation programs
Number of Studies Included: 13
Years Included: Not stated
Findings:
Conclusions:
- Treatment
- Hearing
- Aural Rehabilitation
- Strong conclusions regarding the effectiveness of adult AR groups that emphasize counseling and communication strategies cannot be made due to the small number of well-controlled studies included and small number of participants.
- Based on the evidence that is available, there appear to be at least short term benefits in perception of hearing handicap, quality of life, and possibly better use of hearing aids and communication strategies as a result of adult AR groups.
- Some of these benefits may also be realized in time by individuals with hearing aids that do not participate in adult AR groups. Additional research is necessary.
Keywords: Hearing Loss, Aural Rehabilitation
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Added to Compendium: December 2011