Prevalence and impact of combined vision and hearing (dual sensory) impairment: A scoping review

Abstract

Hearing and vision impairments are common globally. They are often considered separately in research, and in planning and delivering services. However, they can occur concurrently, termed dual sensory impairment (DSI). The prevalence and impact of hearing and vision impairment have been well-examined, but there has been much less consideration of DSI. The aim of this scoping review was to determine the nature and extent of the evidence on prevalence and impact of DSI. Three databases were searched: MEDLINE, Embase and Global Health (April 2022). We included primary studies and systematic reviews reporting the prevalence or impact of DSI. No limits were placed on age, publication dates, or country. Only studies where the full text was available in English were included. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstract, full texts. Data were charted by two reviewers independently using a pre-piloted form. The review identified 183 reports of 153 unique primary studies and 14 review articles. Most evidence came from high-income countries (86% of reports). Prevalence varied across reports, as did age groups of participants and definitions used. The prevalence of DSI increased with age. Impact was examined across three broad groups of outcomes—psychosocial, participation, and physical health. There was a strong trend towards poorer outcomes for people with DSI across all categories compared to people with one or neither impairment, including activities of daily living (worse for people with DSI in 78% of reports) and depression (68%). This scoping review highlights that DSI is a relatively common condition with substantial impact, particularly among older adults. There is a gap in evidence from low and middle-income countries. There is a pressing need for a consensus position on the definition(s) of DSI and standardisation of reporting age groups to enable reliable estimates to be ascertained and compared and responsive services developed.

How have services for diabetes, eye, hearing and foot health been integrated for adults? Protocol for a scoping review

“…Open access people. [10][11][12] Fortunately, many of the causes of vision impairment, hearing impairment and foot problems can be prevented-or progression delayedif detected early and timely treatment is initiated. Therefore, strengthening services for sensory impairment in conjunction with diabetes services would enhance healthy ageing strategies.…”

Insights from Qualitative Inclusive, Participatory Fieldwork with Learners with Deafblindness and Women with Disabilities in Bangladesh: Phase Two

“…Specifically, in Rangpur, CDD, SI and the local TO12 implementing organisation Dristy Sangstha have focussed on providing opportunities for learners with deafblindness or multisensory impairments (Jaiswal et al 2018). It should be noted that there is some controversy about these terms (Bright et al 2023). In Rajshahi, ADD in partnership with the OPD Rojoniganda also aimed to recruit from groups that are usually more excluded from both mainstream and disability programme interventions either due to impairment type or other marginalising factors.…”