Development of a Spanish-Language Toolkit for Hearing Loss Self-Management: Focus Group Results

Hispanic/Latinx adults are 78% less likely to utilize hearing aids in comparison to non-Hispanic/Latinx Whites, despite both groups having a comparable hearing loss prevalence of ~65%. The US Hispanic/Latinx population is projected to grow and along with it, known costly negative health outcomes associated with untreated hearing loss. A potential source of discrepancy between hearing healthcare (HHC) among Hispanic/Latinx adults and white, non-Hispanics is language access. While not previously studied in terms of HHC use, the associations between limited English proficiency (LEP) and overall healthcare utilization are evident. Increasing access to HHC by removing language barriers for individuals with LEP should be a public health priority. Thus, the objective of the current study was to develop culturally and linguistically appropriate HHC patient education materials. We completed an iterative development process and formative evaluation of Spanish- Language education materials utilizing focus group methodology, with the ultimate goal of co-designing materials focused on hearing loss-self management for use with Hispanic/Latinx adults. Participants were 35 Spanish-speaking adults aged 18 to 78 who self-identified as Hispanic/Latinx. The purpose of the focus groups was to ensure that the developed materials were culturally relevant regarding themes, content, and linguistic appropriateness. Focus group content analysis findings revealed the need for materials addressing topics such as familism, caregiving roles, and vanity issues. Participants showed eagerness to share these much-needed materials with loved ones and were enthusiastic to help. Overall, the study was well-received and gave the indication that these materials will be used by and benefit the Hispanic/Latinx community