A German population-based study investigated the effectiveness and feasibility of an outreach program with repeated hearing screenings, diagnoses and interventions in 1052 people with intellectual disabilities in their living environment (kindergartens, schools, homes, workplaces). Hearing loss was diagnosed in 42% of cases, 68% of which were previously unknown. Hospital invitations for the same procedure in a control cohort were not accepted. Certain comorbidities, e.g. hypertension, frequently co-occurred with hearing loss. Its severity correlated significantly with hearing-related quality of life, but recommended therapies were poorly implemented. Regular outreach programs are feasible, useful and can improve the social participation of people with hearing loss. However, hearing rehabilitation with communication training for those affected involving their caregivers is crucial for success.

Program

Prof. Katrin Neumann, M.D.
Hearing screening, diagnostic, and intervention programs for people with intellectual disabilities – why and how?

Philipp Mathmann, M.D.     
Outcome of a population-based study on the effectiveness and feasibility of regular hearing screening, diagnostics, and intervention programs for people with intellectual disabilities in their living environment.

People with intellectual disability and …

…hearing screening and diagnostic methods                 Lucas Prein, M.Sc.        

…treatment with hearing aids                                                 Nils Vogt, B.Pro.

…hearing rehabilitation                                                             Prof. Karolin Schäfer, Ph.D.

…hearing-related quality of life                                              Susanna Zielonkowski, cand. med.

…hearing loss-associated comorbidities                          Awa Naghipour, M.D.

…hearing assessment in a clinical setting                        Anna Wiegand, M.D.

…hearing intervention in a clinical setting                        Anna-Sophia Schwalen, M.D.

Needs and call for action                                                          Prof. Katrin Neumann, M.D.