Effectiveness of the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly (HHIE) in measuring the current state of presbycusis

Abstract

Objectives: The goal of this study is to discern the effects of age-related hearing loss using the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly (HHIE) via a smartphone platform with elderly individuals who are urban residents. Methods: Ninety-two elderly 65 years of age or older participated in this study, divided into groups by age. Group 1 subjects were 65 to 69 years, group 2 subjects were 70 to 79 years, and group 3 were 80 years or older. The questionnaire surveyed 82 participants excluding 10 amplifier users; 79 participants completed the questionnaire. The internal consistency marker was Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α=.918), and the criterion for suspected hearing loss criteria was 18 points or more. The status of presbycusis was analyzed in 89 subjects who were amplified users and completed questionnaires (one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis). Results: The rate of suspected hearing loss confirmed by HHIE was 16.7% in group 1, 25.5% in group 2, and 45% in group 3, respectively. The rate increased with age significantly (r=.392, p=.01). The status of presbycusis including amplifier users was 22.2%, 37.3%, and 60 % in the same order. The status of presbycusis also increased with age significantly (r=.319, p=.01). Conclusion: Presbycusis increases rapidly with age, and HHIE can be a useful tool for hearing screening of the elderly.