A qualitative study exploring access to online hearing loss information and support for adults with hearing loss - Report - MDSpire

A qualitative study exploring access to online hearing loss information and support for adults with hearing loss

  • By

  • Alicia Zou

  • Tsz Yui Wong

  • Jessica Turner

  • Diana Tang

  • Duncan Meldrum

  • Elizabeth Davies

  • Kate Sheng

  • Simon O’Toole

  • Jane Lee

  • Liz Gill

  • Melanie Ferguson

  • Bamini Gopinath

  • June 23, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: An In-Depth Qualitative Analysis of Adults with Hearing Loss

Overview

This qualitative study identifies barriers and facilitators that adults with hearing loss face in accessing information and services.

Background

Hearing loss is a significant public health issue, affecting communication and quality of life. Despite effective interventions, many adults delay seeking help due to various barriers, including lack of awareness and accessibility.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • Barriers to access include poor awareness of hearing loss and low-quality information.
  • Mistrust in the hearing industry and stigma were identified as significant obstacles.
  • Facilitators include peer support and the value of lived experience.
  • Informed decision-making and self-efficacy were highlighted as important for accessing services.
  • The study utilized the Theoretical Domains Framework to interpret findings.

Clinical Implications

The insights gained from this study can guide the development of online resources that address the specific needs of adults with hearing loss. Improving access to trustworthy information may enhance health literacy and encourage timely help-seeking behaviors.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the need to address both individual and systemic factors to improve digital access to hearing healthcare for adults with hearing loss.

Related Resources & Content

  1. JMIR Medical Informatics, 2026 -- Digital Health Communication for Deaf Individuals: Scoping Review of Technologies, Strategies, and Outcomes
  2. Frontiers in Digital Health, 2026 -- The role of perceived competence in remote cochlear implant aftercare: a mixed-methods study
  3. Frontiers in Digital Health, 2026 -- Portable automated rapid testing for auditory assessment: repeated at-home testing in older adults
  4. CPG: Age-Related Hearing Loss - American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), 2024
  5. conexiant — New Tool Clarifies CI Eligibility
  6. Effects of Hearing Devices for Adults With Mild-to-Severe Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
  7. Validation of the Shoebox PureTest audiometry technology for remote data collection in clinical trials
  8. CPG: Age-Related Hearing Loss - American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS)

Original Source(s)

A qualitative study exploring access to online hearing loss information and support for adults with hearing loss

  • by Alicia Zou, Tsz Yui Wong, Jessica Turner, Diana Tang, Duncan Meldrum, Elizabeth Davies, Kate Sheng, Simon O’Toole, Jane Lee, Liz Gill, Melanie Ferguson, Bamini Gopinath

  • June 23, 2026

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