Hearing loss, balance, and risk of falling: A scoping review
Description
This research examines the interrelations between hearing loss, balance, and associated fall risk. This topic is significant because research has shown a strong correlation between hearing loss, imbalance, and an increased risk of falling. Given that fall risk is a growing public health concern globally, advancing this research could help identify modifiable risk factors that can reduce the incidence of falls, particularly among older adults. Addressing this gap could significantly contribute to reducing fall risk across a wide range of health conditions. Additionally, this research could encourage the development of awareness, upskilling, and interdisciplinary collaboration, all of which are essential in addressing fall risk. Currently, it may be assumed that hearing and vestibular assessments are part of the routine fall assessments in physiotherapy and geriatric clinics, but this is not the case. These assessments are not currently included as part of regulatory guidelines or standard practices in these disciplines. Furthermore, fall risk criteria are not part of the test batteries within audiology practices, nor do current guidelines provide clear recommendations for referral when fall risk is suspected. If this research is further developed, it could promote greater awareness and adoption of audio-vestibular assessments within audiology practices and fall clinics. It could also lead to the development of life-saving interventions and strategies to prevent or delay falls, ultimately improving quality of life and offering substantial socio-economic benefits.
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This review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews (JBIMANUAL FOR EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS, 2021) A search was conducted using 4 different electronic databases MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, PubMed and Cochrane to identify relevant literature that may address the objectives of this review. Studies were narrowed by publication within the past 15 years to allow review of the most current research and limited to English language and adult populations only. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. They focused on studies addressing hearing loss and vestibular function/aging, studies addressing links between hearing loss and falls, studies addressing vestibular dysfunction and falls, and associated studies reporting on impact on Quality of Life. As a result, the findings were subdivided Into three groups to assist in reviewing common findings and mapping out the literature. • Hearing Loss, an ageing population and risk of falling - (i) examining the link between hearing loss and fall risk • Impact of hearing loss on balance - (ii) examining the link between hearing loss, postural ability and fall risk • Age related hearing loss, age related vestibular loss and associated fall risk - (iii) examining the link between hearing loss with potential parallel vestibular loss and their association with fall risk.
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- University College CorkMunster, Ireland