Use of hearing aids by older people: influence of non-auditory factors (vision, manual dexterity)

Abstract

Acquired hearing loss is prevalent among older people. As people age, they also may develop impairments in other sensory systems, such as vision and Touch. The purpose of this paper is to examine the communicative effects of a combined sensory loss and discuss how non-auditory aspects of aging can affect a person's ability: (1) to manage daily communication with an acquired hearing loss; and (2) to manipulate and maintain hearing aids that may be prescribed.

Key Words:

• Hearing aids
• Older people
• Hearing
• Vision
• Dexterity