Association Between ERSA and Beck Depression Inventory Scores in Adults With Hearing Loss

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the association between the perceived functional impact of hearing loss, assessed using the evaluation of the impact of hearing loss in adults (Évaluation du Retentissement de la Surdité chez l'Adulte; ERSA), and depressive symptoms quantified by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) in adults with hearing impairment. METHODS: This cross-sectional study comprised adult individuals exhibiting hearing loss of at least 25 dB in 1 ear for a minimum period of 6 months. The ERSA scale assessed hearing-related quality of life (QOL) in functional and psychosocial domains, whereas depression symptoms were measured using the BDI. Demographic and clinical attributes were documented. Correlations between ERSA scores and BDI scores were analyzed in various aspects. RESULTS: A total of 103 adults with hearing loss were included in this study. Higher BDI scores were significantly correlated with lower ERSA scores in the QOL, personal life, and social life domains. Strong negative correlations were observed between BDI scores and ERSA total scores (ERSA 150 and ERSA 200). Participants exhibiting more severe, bilateral, and mixed-type hearing loss showed higher depressive symptom scores and lower ERSA outcomes. Hearing aid users exhibited higher BDI scores and lower ERSA scores compared with non-users. A higher socioeconomic status correlated with reduced depression symptoms and improved hearing-related QOL. CONCLUSIONS: The perceived functional and psychosocial impact of hearing loss, as evaluated by ERSA, is strongly associated with the severity of depressive symptoms measured by the BDI. These findings highlight the necessity of incorporating patient-reported outcome measures and mental health screening into routine audiological assessment. A multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach addressing both auditory and psychological requirements may improve overall outcomes in adults with hearing loss.