An Effect of Amplification on Hearing Ability, Cognition, and Depression among Middle and Late Adulthood

Abstract

Background: Age-related hearing loss in middle adulthood (MA) and late adulthood (LA) is a highly prevalent health condition. It will negatively impact on an individual’s cognitive, social, and psychological functions. An effect of amplification on hearing ability, cognition, and depression among MA and LA are sparse. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate an effect of amplification on hearing ability, cognition, and depression among middle and LA. Methods: A cohort study where 18 MA and 20 LA with hearing impairment aged 50–75 years was selected. Pure tone audiometry, Mini Mental State Examination, and geriatric depression scale were assessed pre and post 6 weeks of amplification. Parameters such as hearing thresholds, cognitive score, and depression level were measured. The statistical tests were used for analyzing the parameters within and across groups. Results: The result shows a significant difference (P < 0.05) with respect to hearing thresholds and cognitive scores within both the groups. A significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed in right ear between both the groups. No significant difference (P > 0.05) was noted in the level of depression between both the groups. Conclusion: An evident difference in the hearing thresholds and cognitive scores were noted with respect to amplification in both the groups. Thus, it can be concluded that the amplification has a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. It should be considered as an important factor during the management of hearing impairment among middle and late-adulthood.