Factors related to the satisfaction level of elderly hearing-impaired individuals with cochlear implants

This study investigated factors related to the satisfaction level of cochlear implants for the elderly.

A survey was conducted by sending an anonymous self-reported questionnaire to medical facilities specializing in cochlear implantation throughout Japan and members of cochlear implant self-help groups aged 65 years and older. The subjects were divided into two age-based groups (under 75 and 75 years and older) to analyze the usage of cochlear implants. Binary logistic regression was performed to analyze factors related to the satisfaction level of the recipients with hearing improvements provided by cochlear implants (p<0.05).

Responses were received from 60 cochlear implant users. The mean age of the respondents was 74.9±6.87 (mean ± 1SD) years. The mean cochlear implant use was 12.4 ± 4.0 (mean ± 1SD) hours per day. Regarding satisfaction with the cochlear implants, 93.3% responded "somewhat satisfactory" or better, indicating at least moderate satisfaction. However, fewer respondents in the 75-years and older group reported feeling "satisfactory" or better (chi-square test, p<0.05). Concerning device operation and management, difficulties including volume adjustment, switching between program, and exchanging cables, were reported. Among the patient-reported indices of postoperative hearing improvements studied, their ability to hear and comprehend conversations with family members and information provided at reception desks were most associated with user satisfaction with cochlear implants.

Many elderly patients were satisfied with their cochlear implants; however, respondents in the 75-years and older group had lower levels of satisfaction compared to those in respondents in the under-75-years group. Elderly patients had problems with more complex operations and management of their cochlear implants. Moreover, they were satisfied with their ability to comprehend familiar, everyday conversations. These factors related to satisfaction level may be useful in providing valuable rehabilitation for elderly patients with cochlear implants.