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Hearing Impairment and Visual Rehabilitation Outcomes.
Anas Obaideen1,2, Judith E Goldstein1, Chris Bradley1
1Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
JAMA Ophthalmology
|March 12, 2026
Summary
Individuals with hearing impairment are less likely to achieve functional gains from vision rehabilitation. This highlights the need for integrated care approaches for those with dual sensory impairment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Audiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Dual sensory impairment (concurrent hearing and vision loss) is prevalent in older adults.
- Individuals with dual sensory impairment face significant social and functional challenges.
- The effectiveness of conventional rehabilitation for dual sensory impairment is under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between hearing impairment and functional improvement after vision rehabilitation.
- To determine if hearing loss impacts the success of vision rehabilitation interventions.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of data from the Low Vision Rehabilitation Outcomes Study (LVROS).
- Included 611 adults with vision impairment and self-reported hearing status.
- Assessed functional improvement using the Activity Inventory and Minimum Clinically Important Difference (MCID), with multivariable logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Participants with hearing impairment were less likely to achieve MCID following vision rehabilitation (23% vs. 31%).
- Hearing impairment was associated with a reduced likelihood of functional improvement (OR, 0.58; P=.03).
- Severe vision impairment and higher depressive symptoms were associated with greater likelihood of achieving MCID.
Conclusions:
- Self-reported hearing impairment is linked to poorer outcomes in vision rehabilitation.
- Integrated, interdisciplinary rehabilitation programs are crucial for individuals with dual sensory impairment.
- Addressing hearing loss may enhance the effectiveness of vision rehabilitation.
