Link Between Dual Sensory Loss and Depression

Article: Link between dual sensory loss and depression
Source: Anglia Ruskin University (U.K.)
Published: January 28, 2021

Researchers in the U.K. investigated the link between combined vision and hearing sensory loss or impairment and its effects on mental health, such as anxiety and depression. Specifically, the researchers analyzed survey data of 23,089 adults from the the Spanish National Health Survey 2017. After taking into account demographic adjustments, the data showed that while people with either visual or hearing loss were more likely to report depression compared to the general population, the odds of having depression were 3.85 times higher for individuals who had dual sensory loss or impairment. Furthermore, individuals with dual sensory loss were 3.38 times more likely to suffer chronic anxiety compared to the general population. The authors report this being the first study to investigate the connection between combined visual and hearing loss and risk of both depression and anxiety. Lead author of the study states, “Difficulties with seeing and hearing affects many aspects of everyday life. It can affect ability to work, interaction with others and carry out physical activity, all of which are important for emotional wellbeing. Our study has found a significantly increased risk of mental health issues like depression and chronic anxiety if people suffer both vision and hearing loss." A co-author adds, "These findings show the importance of appropriate treatment for sensory loss as well as timely intervention for mental health issues. The strong link to mental health that we have found shows these issues cannot be ignored by health authorities and action must be taken to ensure the best possible care for those with sensory loss."

My rating of this study: ⭐⭐

Pardhan S, Smith L, Bourne R, et al. "Combined Vision and Hearing Difficulties Results in Higher Levels of Depression and Chronic Anxiety: Data From a Large Sample of Spanish Adults." Frontiers in Psychology.  18 January 2021. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.627980

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