Hearing loss prevalence and management in nursing home residents.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the prevalence and management of hearing loss and hearing handicap among non-demented nursing home residents.


METHODS
Descriptive study of total population of two nursing homes.


METHODS
All 121 eligible residents.


METHODS
Two nursing homes. MINI OUTCOME MEASURES: Audiometry, questionnaires of nurses and subjects regarding perceived hearing handicap, and documentation in medical records of hearing loss.


RESULTS
77% had at least a mild (greater than or equal to 26 dB Hearing Level) hearing loss in the better ear, and 51% had a moderate to severe loss (greater than or equal to 41 dB HL). Self-assessments of hearing handicap by residents, together with audiometric findings and expressed interest in a hearing aid, were more useful guides for aural rehabilitation needs than were nurses' assessments of residents' handicaps. Medical records failed to identify 48% of residents with moderate to severe hearing losses. Fifty-eight percent of residents with severe hearing loss currently had hearing aids, and 38% more would like to have an aid.


CONCLUSIONS
Residents should have hearing evaluations with documentation of results on admission and periodically under the direction of a nurse trained as a hearing specialist. Environmental modifications of the NH plus use of hearing aids can improve hearing.
Garahan
M B
MB
Starr Farm Nursing Center, Burlington, Vermont.
Waller
J A
JA
Houghton
M
M
Tisdale
W A
WA
Runge
C F
CF
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001301:Audiometry, Pure-Tone; D005260:Female; D006310:Hearing Aids; D034381:Hearing Loss / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009735:Nursing Homes; D012647:Self-Assessment