Tamblay N, Natalia

Abstract: Introduction: Prevalence of hearing problems among elderly people is around 40%. Of these, up to a 30% does not use hearing aids. The HHIE-S (shortened hearing handicap inventory for the elderly) is a validated questionnaire that provides a measure of the emotional and social impact of hearing impairment. Aim: To estímate the percentage of elderly people that uses hearing aids, to find out their arguments for not using them, and to evaluate the emotional and social impact that hearing loss causes in patients suffering from it, according to whether or not they use hearing aid. Material and Method: A retrospective study was carried out on patients over 65 years old, who had received hearing aids at either the Barros Luco or San Borja Arriaran Hospitals. They were questioned about the use of their hearing aids, their reasons for not using them and were asked to complete the HHIE-S questionnaire. Results: 179 patients were included in this study, of which only 80% used their hearing aid a year after receiving it. Reasons for not-using them were: Hearing aid loss or theft (40%), noise coming out from it (14%), patient was bedridden (13%), and problems with the mold (11%). 48% of hearing aid users had a HHIE-S score - 10, whereas the percentage goes up to 77% in those that did not use a hearing aid, a significant difference (p=0,0021). Discussion: In agreement with the literature, patients using their hearing devices improve their emotional and social condition

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