Characteristics associated with marginal hearing loss and subjective well-being among a sample of older adults

Abstract--The influence of marginal hearing loss on subjective well-being was studied in order to assess the audiological rehabilitation needs of older individuals. Behavioral and audiological data were obtained from 40 subjects 61-81 years of age. Group A included 20 subjects with normal audiometric thresholds. Group B included 20 subjects with mild-to-moderate degrees of high-frequency hearing loss. Each subject completed a hearing loss screening survey, an Assistive Technology Device Predisposition Assessment (ATD PA) and a Profile of Hearing Aid Performance (PHAP). The PHAP and hearing loss screen were adequate assessments of self-reported hearing loss, as was the subjective rating of hearing section of the ATD PA. People with high-frequency marginal hearing loss reported less satisfaction with their independence, reduced emotional well-being, and more limitation from their hearing loss than those with normal hearing. It is concluded that marginal degrees of hearing loss in older persons can influence subjective well-being, which suggests the importance of a renewed emphasis on audiological rehabilitation for this population. Key words: assessment, communication aids--hearing, psychosocial rehabilitation, quality of life