Adherence and characterization of elderly adults users of hearing aids attended in the Otorhinolaryngology Department at the Regional Hospital of Talca

Abstract

Introduction: In Chile, a low adherence to the use of hearing aids in the elderly popu- lation has been described, however, there is a lack of information regarding the current situation in locations outside the capital city. Aim: To determine the adherence to the use of hearing aids, and to characterize the population of elderly people that benefit from the use of the same through the Explicit Guarantees in Health (GES), in the Regional Hospital of Talca (HRT). Furthermore, eva- luate the main variables related to adherence in this group. Material and method: Descriptive, cross-sectional, correlational and analytical stu- dy. 78 users were evaluated with CIRUA, Barthel Index and a complementary ques- tionnaire in person. Furthermore, a home visit was carried out. For the data analysis, descriptive statistics and proportions tests. Statistical software used was STATA 11. Results: The adherence described was 75%. Age had a significant inverse correla- tion with adherence, without an association of the other variables studied. There is no significant difference between adherences in the HRT compared with home visits. Conclusions: It is suggested that the approach to elderly beneficiaries be reformu- lated, emphasizing the evaluative and therapeutic role of the speech therapist. Future research is proposed in other regions of the country, using similar methodologies and instruments validated.