Changes in Home Care Clients' Sensory Impairment Status and Its Association With Functioning Over 18 Months: A...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Ophthalmology
• Audiology

Background:

• Sensory impairments (vision and hearing) are prevalent among home care clients.
• The long-term impact of sensory impairments on functioning requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in vision and hearing among home care clients over 18 months.
• To examine the role of sensory impairments in maintaining client functioning.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Finnish Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) database (n = 7013).
• Categorized sensory impairment by type (single/dual) and severity (mild/moderate/severe).
• Employed binary logistic regression with generalized estimating equations to analyze associations.

Main Results:

• 48% of clients had sensory impairment at baseline.
• Over 18 months, 7% improved and 23% worsened.
• Sensory impairments were linked to poorer physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning.
• Moderate/severe dual impairment significantly increased cognitive and physical decline.

Conclusions:

• Sensory impairments are common and dynamic in home care populations.
• Addressing sensory impairments is crucial for maintaining functional abilities.
• Integrated care strategies should consider sensory health for overall client well-being.