Monitoring hearing and vision functions in older adults: rationale and process

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Ophthalmology and Audiology

Background:

• Age-related hearing and vision impairment are prevalent and pose significant public health challenges.
• Many cases of sensory impairment in older adults remain undiagnosed and unaddressed.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) provides evidence-based guidance for monitoring these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the rationale and process for monitoring visual and hearing impairment in older adults.
• To summarize WHO guidance and resources for early detection and intervention.
• To emphasize the importance of regular screening for preventing negative consequences.

Main Methods:

• Summarizing WHO guidelines and available resources.
• Recommending specific screening frequencies for vision (annual for >50 years) and hearing (every 5 years for 50-64, every 1-3 years for >65 years).
• Describing accessible screening methods (eye charts, whispered voice tests, digits-in-noise tests, pure-tone audiometry) usable in various settings by trained health workers.

Main Results:

• Annual vision screening is recommended for adults over 50.
• Hearing screening recommendations vary by age: every 5 years for 50-64 years, and every 1-3 years for those 65 and older.
• Screening can be performed effectively with simple tools in community, home, or clinical settings.

Conclusions:

• Implementing WHO-recommended screening schedules can identify undiagnosed hearing and vision impairment in older adults.
• Accessible screening methods facilitate early detection by trained health workers.
• Prompt referral and person-centered interventions are crucial for mitigating the adverse impacts of sensory impairment.