The BEARS study explores whether Virtual Reality (VR) gaming can help young cochlear implant users improve spatial hearing and speech recognition in noisy environments. The trial provides immersive VR games to train auditory skills, led by UK researchers. If successful, this innovative approach could transform hearing rehabilitation, making it more engaging and effective for children with implants.
(Image Source: University of Southampton)
A New Approach to Hearing Rehabilitation: A groundbreaking study is underway to determine whether Virtual Reality (VR) gaming can help young people with bilateral cochlear implants better navigate noisy environments. Led by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust (GSTT) and the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with several UK universities, the BEARS (Binaural Electronic Auditory Rehabilitation in Sound) study aims to improve how children with cochlear implants perceive sound direction and filter speech from background noise.
Also Read: Study reveals exercise stimulates neuron growth, paving way for new therapies in nerve repair
For many of us, distinguishing a friend's voice in a busy café or detecting the direction of an approaching car is second nature. However, for children with cochlear implants, these tasks can be overwhelming. The BEARS study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), explores whether VR technology can provide an innovative and engaging way to strengthen these auditory skills.
Cochlear implants have been a life-changing innovation for individuals with severe to profound deafness. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which amplify sounds, cochlear implants bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. A tiny microphone near the ear picks up sounds, which are then converted into digital signals. These signals travel to the implant inside the ear, stimulating nerve fibres in the cochlea and sending information to the brain, where they are recognized as sounds.
However, hearing through cochlear implants is not the same as natural hearing. Users must actively train their brains to interpret and adapt to these new sounds. Professor Helen Cullington, an audiologist at the University of Southampton Auditory Implant Service, explains, “Sound from a cochlear implant isn't the same as most people hear. Patients must work on listening skills to adapt and understand what they hear after implants are fitted.”
One of the most significant challenges for young cochlear implant users is spatial hearing—identifying where sounds originate. This skill is crucial in everyday activities, from crossing the street safely to conversing in crowded spaces. Without this ability, children may struggle with social interactions and independent mobility.
The BEARS study, which is expected to run for [X months/years], aims to bridge this gap using VR-based training. The trial has recruited over 160 children, aged eight to 16, from 11 sites across the UK. Participants are randomly assigned to continue their usual clinical care or engage with the BEARS VR software package for three months. The VR group receives a headset equipped with immersive auditory games, including [specific game names and descriptions].
While the VR training method shows promise, it's important to note that it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Each participant in the VR group receives a headset equipped with immersive auditory games. These games, developed in collaboration with young deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, range from a target practice challenge to a music-making activity and even a simulation of a busy pizza restaurant. The goal? To train the brain to locate and separate different sounds in complex environments. However, the effectiveness of this method may vary depending on individual factors, and further research is needed to fully understand its potential.
Jameel Muzaffar, NIHR National Specialty Lead for Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgery & Audiology, highlights the potential impact: “By offering a tailored, interactive, and patient-centred approach, the BEARS VR-based training games have the potential to transform spatial hearing skills, improve understanding of speech in noisy conditions, and enhance quality of life for young cochlear implant users.”
Kaitlyn, a 20-year-old actor and theatre student from London, knows firsthand the challenges of growing up with cochlear implants. Born profoundly deaf, she received her implants at the age of three. Despite the benefits, she often struggled to identify where voices came from, making everyday situations—such as conversations, sports, and road safety—more difficult.
“Even when you've had positive experiences at school with lots of support and D/deaf friends, conversations can be difficult and exhausting," she shares. “You can’t work out where voices are coming from, and by the time you've found who’s speaking, you've missed the first half of what they said.”
When she saw a flyer at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Kaitlyn learned about the BEARS study. She was immediately intrigued by VR training and decided to participate.
"My brother played VR games at home, so I thought it sounded exciting and wanted to give it a go," she says. She engaged with the BEARS software for three months, playing the immersive games weekly. The results were striking. “Afterwards, I noticed my sound location skills had improved—even after this short period. I fed back on the games so they could be developed further to make them as user-friendly as possible for children and young people.”
The BEARS project is a testament to the power of technology in healthcare. Traditional hearing rehabilitation often involves repetitive clinical exercises, which can be challenging for children. VR gaming, however, transforms learning into an interactive and enjoyable experience, increasing motivation and participation.
Beyond its immediate benefits, the study also highlights the importance of co-designing technology with the individuals who will use it. By involving young cochlear implant users in the development process, researchers ensure that the games are practical but also accessible and enjoyable.
If the results of the BEARS trial are successful, this VR-based training could become a standard part of rehabilitation for young cochlear implant users. Beyond the immediate benefits of improved sound location skills and speech understanding in noisy conditions, the study could also lead to long-term improvements in social interactions, academic performance, and overall quality of life for these children, providing them with essential auditory skills engagingly and innovatively.
As technology evolves, the intersection between gaming and healthcare presents exciting new possibilities. Whether it's VR for hearing rehabilitation, AI-driven speech therapy, or wearable assistive technology, these advancements can significantly improve the lives of individuals with hearing impairments.
For now, the BEARS study is a promising step toward a future where young cochlear implant users can navigate the world of sound with greater confidence and ease. With over 160 children participating, researchers hope their findings will pave the way for more personalized and effective rehabilitation methods.
Also Read: Study reveals exercise stimulates neuron growth, paving way for new therapies in nerve repair
Kaitlyn, for one, is optimistic about what's to come. "Finding ways to improve your ability to identify sounds is so important,” she says. “I’m excited to see how this technology can help others like me.”
As the trial progresses, one thing is clear: the future of hearing rehabilitation is not just about hearing—it's about listening, engaging, and thriving in a world full of sound. Stay tuned on Education Post News for more global updates.
Loading ...
Copyright© educationpost.in 2024 All Rights Reserved.
Designed and Developed by @Pyndertech