Association of Hearing Loss Onset and Etiology with Psychosocial Outcomes Among US Older Adults

Abstract

ObjectiveUnderstand the differential association of onset and etiology of hearing loss with psychosocial outcomes among older adults.MethodsThis is a cross‐sectional cohort study based on 2017–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Adults aged ≥70 years who completed audiometric testing and questionnaires on onset and etiologies of hearing loss were included (n = 612). Outcomes included report of social avoidance and major depressive disorder (MDD, PHQ‐9). Multivariable regression was utilized to examine differential associations of onset and etiology of hearing loss on psychosocial outcomes while adjusting for relevant factors.ResultsIn this nationally representative sample of US older adults with hearing loss, 20.8% [95%CI: 14.5–29.0%] reported social avoidance due to hearing loss and 7.2% [95%CI: 4.3–11.8] reported symptoms suggestive of MDD. Multivariable regression demonstrated self‐reported onset of hearing loss between ages 6–19 years (OR:2.49 [95%CI: 1.52–4.10]) and 20–59 years (OR:1.95 [95%CI: 1.07–3.55]) was associated with higher avoidance of social interaction than reported onset at ≥70 years. Those with onset between 20–59 years (OR:4.28 [95%CI: 1.17–15.6]) and 60–69 years (OR:5.68 [95%CI: 1.85–17.5]) were more likely to report symptoms consistent with MDD than those with onset at ≥70. Multivariable regression did not demonstrate increased risk of avoiding social interactions or MDD due to hearing loss from noise exposure, ear infection, or ear disease versus aging alone.ConclusionThere was an association between earlier hearing loss onset with social avoidance and MDD. This suggests a need for research to investigate the impact of earlier diagnosis and intervention for hearing loss on psychosocial outcomes.Level of Evidence2b Laryngoscope, 2024