Hearing loss and hearing service experiences among older Māori and whānau: a scoping review.

AIM Older Māori have higher rates of self-reported disabling hearing loss in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ). However, have greater unmet need for special equipment than non-Māori. This review aims to analyse current literature on the experiences of hearing loss and hearing services among older Māori and whānau. METHOD This scoping review was undertaken using a Kaupapa Māori approach and PRISMA guidelines. Databases were explored to identify literature focused on older Māori and whānau experiences of hearing loss and hearing services. Inclusion criteria included: literature set in the NZ context; published between 1985 and 2020; English language; focus on hard-of-hearing Māori and whānau experiencing sensorineural hearing loss. RESULTS A total of eight sources were identified. Hearing loss is a detriment to daily functioning, partaking in conversations and retaining Māori culture. Cost and poor patient-provider interactions created barriers to hearing services for Māori with hearing loss and whānau. CONCLUSION The last analysis of literature regarding hearing loss and hearing services for Māori was written in 1989. Inequities in hearing loss and access to hearing services remain. Research that is Māori-led and uses a Kaupapa Māori approach is needed to further understand the realities of hearing loss and hearing services for older Māori and whānau.