Embedding audiological screening within memory clinic care pathway for individuals at risk of cognitive decline—patient perspectives

BMC Geriatrics

卷:21

Siobhan Fox¹  Sean P. Kennelly²  Joshi Dookhy²  Anna McDonough²  Cathy McHale²  Jennifer Sharkey³ 

[1] Centre for Gerontology and Rehabilitation, University College Cork;

[2] Department of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital;

[3] Department of Audiology, Tallaght University Hospital;

关键词: Cognitive impairment;    Hearing;    Dementia;    Audiology;    Brain health;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12877-021-02701-0

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Background With the evolving knowledge on hearing as a potentially modifiable mid-life risk factor for dementia, identification of people at risk becomes increasingly important. People with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) presenting to specialist memory services represent a key “at-risk” target population for audiological evaluation, but few services have established this pathway. This study sought to examine the patient experience and understanding of this process. Methods All patients with MCI attending a tertiary referral memory service referred for audiology review were contacted. A patient survey was delivered over the phone. Outpatient letters and the memory clinic database were reviewed. Results Twenty patients with MCI were included in the survey. Eight (8/20, 40%) had self-reported hearing loss. Upon formal audiological assessment seventeen (17/20, 85%) had objective evidence of hearing loss; nine (9/17, 52.9%) with mild-moderate and eight (8/17, 47%) with moderate-severe hearing loss. Only six patients (6/20, 30%) recalled having the rationale behind having a hearing test as part of their memory work-up explained to them. However, the majority (15/20, 75%) felt a hearing test was an important part of their memory assessment. Just seven patients overall (7/20, 35%) identified a link between hearing-loss and cognition. All patients who provided feedback on the service itself made positive comments, although (4/20, 20%) felt they did not get adequate information about the results. Conclusions A significant proportion of people with MCI had de-novo evidence of hearing impairment upon assessment. Patients are satisfied with incorporating audiological evaluation into a memory clinic assessment, however clear communication around indication, recommendations, and follow-up ensuring compliance is required.

【 授权许可】

Unknown