Assessing Meaningful Improvement: Focus on the Tinnitus Functional Index.

Many studies have attempted to determine methodology for interpreting change on outcome instruments that result from an intervention. The objective of these studies has been to devise methods to identify the minimal level of change that would be consistent with actual benefit perceived by the patient, and not just statistically significant change. With respect to intervention for bothersome tinnitus, the authors of the original study to develop and validate the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) suggested that a minimum 13-point reduction in the TFI score was likely to reflect a change perceived as meaningful to an individual.

The influence of tinnitus and hearing loss on the functional status of military Service members and Veterans.

Objective: This study evaluated the influence of tinnitus and hearing loss on the functional status of military Service members and Veterans.

Design: Participants completed audiologic testing and self-report instruments to assess tinnitus, hearing, and general functioning. We conducted multiple linear regression analyses using cross-sectional data with functional status as the dependent variable.

Associations between medical conditions and auditory dysfunction in US Veterans.

Objective: To examine associations between non-otologic medical conditions and auditory dysfunction.

Design: Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the Noise Outcomes in Service members Epidemiology (NOISE) study. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between medical conditions (0, 1, and 2 or more conditions) and auditory dysfunction (hearing loss pure tone average ≥20 dB HL and tinnitus), adjusting for key confounders including noise exposure.

Heterogeneity in Vision, Hand Function, Cognition, and Health Literacy Among Older Veterans: Impacts, Outcomes, and Clinical Recommendations for First-Time Hearing Aid Users.

Background: Age-related changes (both normal and pathological), and health literacy are relevant to audiological practice. Changes associated with the musculoskeletal, vascular, and nervous systems drive manual, visual, and cognitive function. These in turn affect the capabilities required for effective hearing aid (HA) skill acquisition, use, and management.

Noise Outcomes in Servicemembers Epidemiology (NOISE) Study: Design, Methods, and Baseline Results.

Objectives: Military Service members and Veterans commonly report hearing loss and tinnitus, both of which can result in significant disability. During military service, Service members are exposed to many different types of loud noise, which is strongly associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. Other military-related exposures, such as chemicals and traumatic brain injury (TBI), are also linked with auditory problems.