Barriers and enablers to hearing service provision in aged care settings in Australia: perspectives from hearing clinicians.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the barriers and enablers hearing clinicians face providing services for people in home and residential aged care settings in Australia.

Design: Semi-structured interviews were conducted using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation Behaviour model (COM-B). Deductive and inductive qualitative analysis were applied using Braun and Clarke's method.

Study sample: Thirty audiologists and audiometrists from private and public hearing clinics across urban and regional areas of Australia.

Results: Five themes emerged: (1) clinical knowledge and skills, (2) practical challenges in service delivery, (3) collaboration and support, (4) resources: training, time and funding, and (5) self-motivation and well-being. Barriers included limited knowledge and training in dementia care, counselling, and emotional self-care, as well as unsuitable workspaces, poor coordination, time constraints and emotional toll. Enablers included on-the-job experience, clear protocols for working in aged care settings, collaborative support from care staff and families, and clinicians' intrinsic motivation. Hearing care clinicians could be supported to work in aged care settings through training in working with people with dementia, counselling, and in managing the emotional impact of work in aged care.

Conclusion: Implementing effective education programs for staff and establishing dedicated hearing liaison roles will enhance hearing service provision in aged care.