Bidirectional associations of vision loss, hearing loss, and dual sensory loss with depressive symptoms among the middle-aged and older adults in China

Background: Most studies on the relationship between sensory loss and depression focus on the unidirectional association between sensory loss and the risk of depression based on cross-sectional designs. The present study aimed to explore the bidirectional longitudinal associations of vison loss (VL),(1) hearing loss (HL),(2) and dual sensory loss (DSL)(3) with depressive symptoms among Chinese population. Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted among 13,690 participants aged 45 years and older over four years. VL, HL, and DSL were identified through self-reporting, and depressive symptoms were assessed using a 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were constructed to estimate the bidirectional associations of VL, HL, and DSL with depressive symptoms. Results: Participants with self-reported VL (HR: 1.14, 95%CI: 1.04-1.24), HL (HR: 1.22, 95%CI: 1.07-1.37), and DSL (HR: 1.27, 95%CI: 1.08-1.49) were associated with higher risk of developing depressive symptoms, compared with those without VL, HL, and DSL, respectively. In comparison with those without depressive symptoms, participants with depressive symptoms in the baseline had higher risk of developing VL (HR: 1.43, 95%CI: 1.33-1.54), HL (HR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.36-1.63), and DSL (HR: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.59-1.95). Limitations: Sensory loss was defined only based on participants' self-report. Conclusions: Significant bidirectional associations exist between self-reported VL, HL, or DSL and depressive symptoms. The mental health of people with VL and HL should be focused on, and regular assessments of vision and hearing in people with depressive symptoms are recommended.

Automated summary

This study found bidirectional associations between vision loss, hearing loss, and dual sensory loss with depressive symptoms. It suggests the importance of focusing on the mental health of individuals with vision and hearing loss, and recommends regular assessments of vision and hearing in individuals with depressive symptoms.