Hearing assistance device incorporating virtual audio interface for therapy guidance

A hearing assistance device comprising:

• one or more sensors configured to sense movement of the wearer;
• a speaker configured to play back audio cues;
• a transceiver;
• and
• a processor coupled to the one or more sensors, the speaker, and the transceiver, the processor configured to:
• generate a sequence of cues that guide the wearer through at least one predetermined balance test comprising one of a 30 second chair test and a timed up and go test (TUG);
• analyze data from the one or more sensors to determine execution of the predetermined balance test by the wearer;
• and
• produce an output indicative of results of the predetermined balance test, the output comprising at least one of an audio message for playback by the speaker and a data signal communicated to an external device by the transceiver.

A hearing assistance device comprising:

• one or more sensors configured to sense movement of the wearer;
• a speaker configured to provide audio output to the wearer;
• and
• a processor coupled to the one or more sensors and the speaker, the processor configured to:
• receive an indication that the wearer has completed a predetermined corrective or therapeutic maneuver;
• initiate, in response to the indication, a post-maneuver monitoring interval having a prescribed duration;
• analyze data from the one or more sensors during the post-maneuver monitoring interval to determine at least one of a body orientation and head position of the wearer;
• and
• generate, for playback by the speaker, one or more audio reminders or alerts based on the determined body orientation or head position, the audio reminders or alerts indicating post-maneuver precautions associated with the predetermined corrective or therapeutic maneuver.