Older adults with acquired hearing impairment: applying the ICF in rehabilitation

The aim of this article is to describe the disability experienced by older people with hearing impairment using the framework provided by the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). The nature and prevalence of hearing impairment in the older population are outlined, along with the Activity Limitations and Participation Restrictions associated with such impairments, and the contextual factors that influence the disability. Appropriate assessments of hearing Impairments, Activity Limitations, and Participation Restrictions applicable in a rehabilitation context are also described. Hearing impairment leads to breakdowns in communication, a fact that suggests that the impairment is likely to influence frequent communication partners. It is argued here that the impact of the impairment on others is a so-called Third-Party Disability. Finally, an example of how the ICF can be applied in the rehabilitation of an older person with hearing disability is presented.