A voice analysis comparison of children with cochlear implants, hearing aids, and normal hearing

Abstract

Voice errors are one of the most common types of errors in children with hearing loss speech, and it is well known that deaf people's speech and voice characteristics differ significantly from those of normal hearing individuals. The study included 12 children (2 to 5 years). They are divided into 3 groups: children with a cochlear implant Group, children with hearing aids used, and normal hearing children. The voice was analyzed using the software program Dr. Speech Vocal Assessment. Values of voice parameters were analyzed using Statistical Methods. The result of this study shows that the mean value of habitual frequency was higher in children with the cochlear implant group and hearing aid users group as compared to the other groups and all voice parameters of 3 groups did not show statistically significant differences. A study done by Pickett in 1996 reported that the Fo was produced by children with hearing loss. Our study also evidence of increased F0 in children with hearing loss. However, all voice parameters did not show a significant difference between the children with cochlear implants, hearing aid users, and normal hearing; the result of cochlear implantation and hearing aid and voice and speech education is thus sufficient.