205 The Effects of Acquired Hearing Loss in Later Life - A Pilot Study

Background Acquired hearing loss (AHL) is defined as a hearing loss which is acquired after birth or at any other time in one’s life. In Ireland one in every twelve adults has a permanent hearing loss as a result of ageing or exposure to noise. Statistical findings are consistent with people identified with hearing loss in later life having a corresponding higher risk of cognitive decline. The pilot study aimed to investigate the experience of members of a deaf association who had been diagnosed with AHL in later life. This is the first time this particular group has been surveyed in Ireland. Methods A qualitative research design was used. The information was gathered using an open-ended questionnaire which was distributed to 30 participants. Rich data was extracted and analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke 2006). Results 12 members of the deaf association responded to the questionnaire. From these responses four themes were identified: emotional well-being, management strategies & rehabilitation, promoting awareness and alienation. This study indicated that AHL can have a detrimental effect on people in later life. Conclusion There is irrefutable evidence to suggest that the effect of AHL in later life exceeds the effect on hearing alone and extends to emotional and physical well-being as well as overall quality of life. The pilot study demonstrates the urgent need for a far-reaching study to evaluate the effect of AHL in later life on the Irish population, its impact on quality of life and cognitive decline while highlighting the need for community awareness and understanding.