Abstract
Background
Sensory impairments are common health concerns in older adults and are associated
with cognitive decline and depression. Restriction in social participation is likely
to be a key factor in explaining the association between sensory impairments and adverse
outcomes. Studies on sensory impairments associated with restricted social participation
are limited.
Aim
To examine associations between hearing impairment, visual impairment, dual sensory
impairment, and restricted social participation in older adults.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted. Older adults aged ≥ 65 years (N = 600) were
recruited from community health centres in northern Taiwan. Hearing and visual function
were measured with pure-tone audiometry and visual acuity tests. Restricted social
participation was defined as with or without restricted social participation by the
type and frequency of social activity participation. Data for sociodemographic characteristics,
physical function, mobility, depression, and social support were collected by means
of an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis,
and multivariate logistic regression models were employed.
Findings
The participants had a mean age of 73.8 years and 64.8% were female. Hearing impairment,
visual impairment, and dual sensory impairment were reported by 25.6%, 6.8%, and 5.3%
of participants. Multivariate analysis showed older adults with dual sensory impairment
and hearing impairment were significantly associated with increased risk of restricted
social participation.
Conclusion
Hearing impairment and dual sensory impairment were the most relevant risk factors
with a significant influence on restricted social participation in older adults. Further
studies to develop appropriate interventions to promote social participation are strongly
recommended.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 01, 2022
Accepted:
June 13,
2022
Received in revised form:
May 16,
2022
Received:
March 14,
2022
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
