The speech intelligibility benefit of a unilateral wireless system for hearing-impaired adults

Whitmer, W.M. , Brennan-Jones, C.G. and Akeroyd, M.A. (2011) The speech intelligibility benefit of a unilateral wireless system for hearing-impaired adults. International Journal of Audiology, 50(12), pp. 905-911. (doi: 10.3109/14992027.2011.606285)

Abstract

Objective: This study measured the effects of two previously untested practical considerations-venting and transmission delays-on speech intelligibility in a simulated unilateral wireless system, where a target signal in background noise was transmitted wirelessly to the hearing-impaired (HI) listener. Design: Speech reception thresholds (SRTs) relative to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were measured by varying the surrounding babble noise level. The target signal was presented at 0 degrees azimuth in the soundfield and unilaterally via an insert earphone, using open and closed fittings with simulated-wireless delays ranging between 0-160 ms. SRTs were also measured unaided and with participants' current hearing aid(s). Study sample: Thirty-three mild-to-moderate sensorineural HI adults participated in the experiment. Results: For an open fitting, the results showed a 5-dB SNR benefit in SRT compared to unaided performance at shorter delays. For a closed fitting, the majority of participants could accurately recognize speech below - 20 dBSNR across delays. Conclusions: These results highlight the efficacy of wireless systems with HI adults. Speech-intelligibility benefits are affected by transmission delays only when the delay is greater than 40 ms and the coupling is vented

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Whitmer, Dr William and Akeroyd, Dr Michael
• Authors: Whitmer, W.M., Brennan-Jones, C.G., and Akeroyd, M.A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: International Journal of Audiology
• ISSN: 1499-2027