ISSN : 1229-6457(Print)
ISSN : 2466-040X(Online)
ISSN : 2466-040X(Online)
The Korean Journal of Vision Science Vol.27 No.4 pp.259-267
DOI : https://doi.org/10.17337/JMBI.2025.27.4.259
DOI : https://doi.org/10.17337/JMBI.2025.27.4.259
The Impact of Dual Sensory Loss on Quality of Life Among Older Adults Aged 60 and Above
Abstract
Purpose : This study examined the association between dual sensory loss (DSL) in vision and hearing and quality of life (QoL) among Korean older adults aged ≥60 years. Methods : Data from 564 participants in the 9th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2020) were analyzed. Visual loss was defined by best-corrected visual acuity (≤0.3, ≤0.5, ≤0.7 cut-offs), and hearing loss by pure-tone average >40 dB. Participants were categorized as normal, vision-only, hearing-only, or dual loss. QoL was assessed using EQ-5D-3L and the Korean weighted index. Analyses included χ² tests, t-tests, ANOVA, and multivariable logistic regression. Results : Visual and hearing loss frequently co-occurred, with significant associations at the ≤0.5 and ≤0.7 cut-offs (p<0.01). Sensory-loss groups reported more problems in mobility, self-care, and usual activities. EQ-5D index was significantly lower in the visual loss group at the ≤0.7 cut-off (0.874 vs. 0.922, p<0.001), while hearing loss alone showed no independent effect. By group, the index was highest in the normal group (0.904±0.133) and lowest in the hearing-only group (0.872±0.160). Logistic regression confirmed an elevated risk of poor QoL in the dual loss group (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.15–3.04). Conclusion : Dual sensory loss was strongly associated with reduced QoL in older adults, particularly in self-care and daily functioning. Integrated management of vision and hearing health is essential to promote independence and well-being in an aging society.






