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Screening for age-related hearing loss in general practice: feasibility, diagnostic Value, and subsequent care
Martin J Koch1, Rebecca Betz1, Peter K Kurotschka1
1Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
Introduction:
Hearing loss (hypoacusis) is highly prevalent among older adults, affecting approximately 33% of individuals aged 65 years and above. It primarily impairs communication and is associated with mental health conditions, dementia, and social impairment. Although various screening methods exist, they are not routinely implemented in general practice. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and diagnostic value of screening for age-related hearing loss in general practices, as well as subsequent care pathways.
Methods:
In six general practices, 108 participants aged 65 years and older were screened using easyScreen, a method based on auditory brainstem responses, and were followed up after three and 6 months regarding further diagnostic evaluation and hearing aid uptake.
Results:
The screening procedure was brief, well tolerated, and largely compatible with practice workflows. easyScreen detected additional cases compared to questionnaire-based screening alone. The acceptance rates for further diagnostic evaluation and for the recommendation of a hearing aid were each approximately two-thirds.
Discussion:
While screening appears feasible and diagnostically valuable, the main challenges lie in post-screening care, particularly in diagnostic follow-up and treatment uptake.
