Readability of Internet Information on Hearing: Systematic Literature Review

Purpose: This systematic literature review asks the following question: "What is the readability of Internet information on hearing that people with hearing impairment and their significant others can access in the context of their hearing care?" Method: Searches were completed in three databases: CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus. Seventy-eight records were identified and systematically screened for eligibility: 8 records were included that contained data on the readability of Internet information on hearing that people with hearing impairment and their significant others can access in the context of their hearing care. Results: Records reported mean readability levels from 9 to over 14. In other words, people with hearing impairment and their significant others need 9 to 14 years of education to read and understand Internet information on hearing that they access in the context of their hearing care. Conclusion: The poor readability of Internet information on hearing has been well documented; it is time to focus on valid and sustainable initiatives that address this problem.