Musical Backgrounds, Listening Habits, and Aesthetic Enjoyment of Adult Cochlear Implant Recipients

TLDR

The study examines listening habits and musical enjoyment in postlingually deafened adults with cochlear implants. Sixty‑five cochlear‑implant users completed a survey on musical background, prior involvement, and audiologic success, while 67 participants kept 7‑day diaries of music listening, and responses were correlated with cognition and speech recognition. Results show a wide range of musical success, with most users enjoying music less after implantation, and enjoyment being affected by listening environment and musical characteristics.

Abstract

This paper describes the listening habits and musical enjoyment of postlingually deafened adults who use cochlear implants. Sixty-five implant recipients (35 females, 30 males) participated in a survey containing questions about musical background, prior involvement in music, and audiologic success with the implant in various listening circumstances. Responses were correlated with measures of cognition and speech recognition. Sixty-seven implant recipients completed daily diaries (7 consecutive days) in which they reported hours spent in specific music activities. Results indicate a wide range of success with music. In general, people enjoy music less postimplantation than prior to hearing loss. Musical enjoyment is influenced by the listening environment (e.g., a quiet room) and features of the music.