Remote Audiological Testing for People with Learning Disabilities_v3
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Feasibility and validity of remote audiological testing for individuals with learning disabilities.
IRAS ID
297080
Contact name
Siobhan Brennan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 15 days
Research summary
This research study aims to address the following research questions:
a) Are remote hearing tests using an "off-the-shelf" device a valid predictor of clinically measured hearing in individuals with learning difficulties?
b) Are these remote hearing tests feasible and acceptable?
Hearing problems are common in people with learning difficulties, hindering effective communication and adversely affecting quality of life.
Inequality regarding access to clinical services for people with learning disabilities is well documented, which has been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. This project aims to evaluate an approach which may enable people with learning disabilities to complete hearing assessments that circumvents access barriers.The study involves comparing hearing test results acquired in the typical audiology clinic under controlled conditions to results obtained remotely in participants' homes using a HearX device. The HearX device is a tablet computer with a standard hearing test, a listening in background noise test, an ear-health questionnaire (CEDRA), and a video otoscope (to examine the ear canal and ear drum). Participants will complete these tests independently or with the help of their carer. Participants and their carers will also be asked to complete a questionnaire regarding the acceptability and feasibility of remote testing.
Only adults with learning disabilities who can understand the requirements of the study and can provide informed consent will be eligible.
Clinical hearing measures will be collected at NHS Trust sites in South East England as part of participants' routine care, independent of the current research study. Eligible participants will be identified and recruited from these NHS Trust sites and will be loaned a HearX device for up to 5 days to complete the hearing tests at home.
This study is part of the Audiology, Learning Disability and Autism Project (ALDAP) which is funded by Health Education England South Region Intellectual Disabilities Programme.
REC name
West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/WM/0083
Date of REC Opinion
25 May 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion