Cohort study assesses hearing status and its impact on quality of life in individuals with intellectual disabilities, indicating the importance of early detection.
Key Points
Hearing loss was diagnosed in 44.0% of participants, highlighting the prevalence of unrecognized hearing issues among individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The mean hearing-related quality of life score was 3.0 out of a possible 4 points, indicating room for improvement in this population's quality of life.
A multivariable regression found a significant, albeit small, association between the degree of hearing loss and hearing-related quality of life, suggesting a direct impact.
Regular audiometric tests are essential for improving hearing-related quality of life in people with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the need for ongoing assessment.