The impact of sensory impairment on cognitive performance, quality of life, depression, and loneliness among older adults

Objectives The objectives of this study were to evaluate the relationship between sensory impairment (hearing loss only, vision loss only, and dual sensory impairment [DSI]) and depression, loneliness, quality of life, and cognitive performance among older adults. Methods A total of 229 community dwelling older adults aged 60 years or older participated in this study. Variables were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), Revised University of California at Los Angeles Loneliness Scale (R-UCLA), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), respectively. Results There is an independent association between DSI and quality of life (P < .05), and between DSI and hearing loss alone and cognitive function (P < .05) among older adults. In addition, higher education is reported to have better quality of life and cognitive function. Conclusions DSI is a significant factor affecting the quality of life and cognitive function among older adults. Sociodemographic such as education plays an important role in improving the quality of life and cognitive function. Thus, afford in increasing the awareness of this disability is important to insure that older adults receive the necessary support service and rehabilitation to improve their level of independence.