HHIA
Also written as: HHIA — Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults
Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults; a self-report questionnaire measuring the psychosocial and situational effects of hearing loss in non-elderly adults.
Full Definition
The Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults (HHIA) is a validated, 25-item self-assessment tool adapted from the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly (HHIE) for use with adults under 65. It quantifies emotional and social or situational handicap associated with hearing loss, producing scores that guide rehabilitation planning and measure treatment outcomes. Editors must note that HHIA and HHIE are distinct instruments; conflating them is a common error in manuscripts. Both tools use a three-option response format ('yes,' 'sometimes,' 'no') and yield percentage scores. The HHIA is frequently cited in outcome studies comparing unaided and aided hearing function.
Usage
Usage note: Always expand on first use. Distinguish clearly from HHIE (Elderly) in editing; authors frequently confuse the two.
In Context
- "Pre- and post-fitting HHIA scores demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in perceived handicap following hearing aid use." — Clinical outcomes report
- "The manuscript incorrectly cited the HHIA when referencing a study population with a mean age of 72; the HHIE would have been the appropriate tool." — Editorial review note