The Effects of Developing a Dual Sensory Loss on Depression in Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study

Objectives: To determine the effect of developing a dual sensory loss (DSL) on depression over time and evaluate the impact of preexisting single sensory loss on this effect. Method: Multilevel modeling was used to analyze data (N = 2,689) from the Health and Retirement Study. Results: A significant increase in depression at the first report of DSL occurred, and depression increased at a significantly faster rate following DSL, in a curvilinear pattern. In addition, persons who eventually developed DSL began the study with a depression score significantly higher than persons who did not experience sensory loss. A preexisting single sensory loss did not alter the effect of DSL on depression. Discussion: Two sources of disparity in depression between persons with and without DSL were identified: preexisting differences and differences that occurred due to the DSL. The relationship exhibited between depression and developing a DSL indicated an adjustment process.