Work

Understanding and enhancing the online video call experience of individuals with hearing loss

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the communication difficulties people with hearing loss (HL) face during video conferencing (VC) calls, and to evaluate whether the use of different hearing technology solutions during VC calls might alleviate these difficulties. DESIGN: An observational mixed between- and within-subject design was used in this study. STUDY SAMPLE: A total of 57 adults participated, including bilateral hearing aids (HAs) users and (NH) participants. Speech perception, speech comprehension, and self-report assessments were conducted via VC calls, and compared between NH and HL groups (Part 1). In Part 2, the performances and experiences of participants with HL were evaluated across different listening setups for VC calls including using a loudspeaker, wired headphones, and Bluetooth streaming. RESULTS: VC calls were significantly more challenging for people with HL compared to NH people, even when wearing HAs. The experience of people with HL varied depending on how they listened, with participants preferring Bluetooth streaming to HAs or using headphones when also able to customise the sound with sound-enhancing software. CONCLUSIONS: The experiences of people with HL can be enhanced by tailoring their listening setup based on their individual preferences to improve communication and reduce listening effort during video calls.

Source: International Journal of Audiology

DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2025.2505541

Authors: Vicky W. Zhang, Jessica Tsiolkas, Arun Sebastian, Angela Wong, Padraig Kitterick

Institutions: National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University

Language: English

Topic: Hearing Loss and Rehabilitation

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Department of Health and Aged Care, Australian Government