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Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
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Posturographic Analysis in the Elderly with and without sensorineural Hearing Loss
Daiane Soares de Almeida Ciquinato1, Marcelo Yugi Doi1, Rubens A da Silva2,3
1Pitagoras Unopar University, Stricto Sensu Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Science UEL-UNOPAR, Londrina, Parana, Brazil.
International Archives of Otorhinolaryngology
|November 2, 2020
Summary
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is linked to poorer postural balance in older adults, increasing fall risks. Elderly men with SNHL showed significantly worse balance performance compared to women.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Audiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a prevalent public health issue, particularly among the elderly.
- Emerging evidence suggests a strong correlation between SNHL and balance impairments, heightening the risk of falls in older populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between SNHL and postural balance in elderly individuals of both genders.
- To quantify the impact of hearing loss on balance parameters such as center of pressure (COP) area and sway velocity.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 247 physically independent elderly individuals (mean age 68.4 years, 166 women) was assessed.
- Pure tone audiometry was used to diagnose hearing loss, while a force platform measured center of pressure (COP) area and anteroposterior/mediolateral sway velocity for balance assessment.
Main Results:
- Hearing loss was present in 68% of participants, with significant associations found between SNHL and increased COP area, anteroposterior sway velocity, and mediolateral sway velocity.
- Elderly women demonstrated better balance performance than men across all measured parameters.
- Among men, those with hearing loss showed significantly worse COP area compared to their hearing peers.
Conclusions:
- Elderly individuals with SNHL exhibit greater postural instability, indicating a higher risk of falls.
- Elderly men with SNHL present with poorer balance outcomes, highlighting a potential gender-specific vulnerability.
