Level of satisfaction of the elderly users of auditory prosthesis donated by APAC – NAMI –UNIFOR

Abstract

This research aimed at knowing the level of satisfaction of the elderly users of auditory prosthesis, donated by APAC (high complexity attendance authorization) in association with NAMI – UNIFOR (Fortaleza University). A questionnaire interview was applied to 20 patients above 60 years of age, of both genders, who were benefited by the donation of AASI (Aparelho de Amplificação Sonora Individual) by APAC – NAMI – UNIFOR for at least 4 months. A predominance of the male gender in the acquisition of the prosthesis was verified, summing up 12 patients (60%); presbiacusia showed to be the main cause of deafness for 12 patients (60%); the most indicated type of auditory prosthesis was the retro-auricular one in a total of 14 patients (70%); the best outcome of the prosthesis was observed in items related to its use for watching television (60%), normal conversation (60%), listening to music (60%); conversation on the street (40%) and at church (45%). The least satisfaction in the use of the device was obtained at the shopping center (20%) and at the bank (20%). Concerning as the users’ complaints, the use of the device in environments with intense sounds was referred (25%), followed by the item related to the handling of the appliance controls (20%). The questionnaire application showed a good level of satisfaction by the patients, however it was verified that in specific environments the users had reduced level of experience with the device, probably revealing a more domestic life style.