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Published on: October 11, 2024
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Cochlear Implantation Outcomes in Older Adults, Ages 80-90
Kevin Y Zhan, Karmela Dizdar1, Dorina Kallogjeri1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Division of Otology & Neurotology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.
Summary
Cochlear implantation (CI) significantly improves speech recognition in adults aged 80 and older. This study found no major differences in speech outcomes between the 80-89 and 90+ age groups, supporting CI candidacy for very elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Gerontology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Hearing loss is prevalent in older adults, impacting communication and quality of life.
- Cochlear implantation (CI) is an effective treatment for severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss.
- The efficacy of CI in the very elderly (90+ years) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare postoperative speech recognition outcomes in cochlear implant recipients aged 80-89 versus 90+.
- To evaluate the influence of age, cognitive status, and comorbidities on CI outcomes in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 221 patients (≥80 years) undergoing bilateral CI.
- Speech recognition was assessed using CNC, AzBio Quiet, and AzBio +10SNR tests at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.
- Preoperative cognitive screening and self-reported balance/vertigo symptoms were also evaluated.
Main Results:
- Speech recognition significantly improved from preoperative levels in both age groups (80-89 and 90+).
- No significant differences in 1-year postoperative speech scores were observed between the 80-89 and 90+ age groups.
- Age, abnormal cognitive screening, and comorbidity status did not correlate with speech perception outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Cochlear implantation yields significant speech recognition benefits for adults in their 80s and 90s.
- Age alone should not be a barrier to cochlear implant candidacy in older adults.
- These findings support expanding CI candidacy to the very elderly, irrespective of cognitive or comorbidity status.
