This illustrates the benefit of having auditory cues available along with the tactile information. The results on both tests are higher in the Tactilator and hearing aid condition. Pre and Post test results. Pre and Post test results. Pre and Post test results.
Group results with and without hearing aids.
These scores are represented in words per minute. The highest scores are obtained with the cochlear implant but some improvement over time is evident in the Tactilator condition, going from 19 words per minute to 25 words per minute. This is the only condition where the subject demonstrated improvement. Summary The Tactilator appears to enhance the speechreading abilities of profoundly deafened individuals. Specific training is necessary to achieve optimal use of the device.