The Relationship Between Hearing Frequency And Fall Risk In Older Adults

Age-related hearing loss is a progressive condition that affects 33% of adults over age 65, and is estimated to impact nearly 900 million adults by 2050. Previous studies suggest that hearing loss contributes to poor balance and cognitive decline, increasing the risk for fall-related injuries. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between hearing, balance, and multisensory integration as potential biomarkers of fall risk with application to potential mitigation strategies. METHODS: This descriptive study consisted of 24 older adults (ages 77 ± 8.7 yrs, height 167.3 ± 10.0 cm, body mass 73.7 ± 12.5 kg) who initially received a full audiological evaluation with analysis of Speech Reception Threshold (SRT) and Speech Recognition (SpRec). The SRT's normal range is 0-25 dB. The SRT is the lowest level that speech can be recognized 50% of the time. Handgrip strength was assessed for all participants as a correlative measure. Balance was assessed using the Modified CTSIB on the Biodex Balance System™. Limits of stability and sway index were recorded for each condition. Fall risk was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test along with a dual-task version of the TUG test (TUGcog).The TUG test with a cognitive component consisted of a traditional TUG test with participants instructed to count backwards by 7 from a randomly assigned number. Data was analyzed for relationships between hearing threshold, postural sway, and TUG test time. Pearson correlation (p < .05) was applied to balance and hearing variables. RESULTS: Statistically significant, positive relationships were evidenced between SRT and TUG time (r = .650); SRT and TUGcog (r = .570); SpRec and TUG (r = -.421); and SpeRec and TUGcog (r = -.38). Linear regression revealed: TUG = 6.243 + 0.130(SRT). CONCLUSION: TUG time may be utilized in conjunction with hearing thresholds to help determine fall risk. Earlier and more comprehensive identification of individuals who are at higher risk of falling can contribute to strategies that may prevent the danger of falling in older adults.