IN-OFFICE SCREENING FOR AGE-RELATED HEARING AND VISION LOSS

Impairment in hearing and vision are common for persons age 65 and old er, and severe impairments may result in dependencies in daily activit ies. Hearing loss with age often results in diminshed ability to commu nicate with others and may lead to isolation, depression, and cognitiv e changes. A hearing evaluation involving simple screening tools is im portant for early recognition and treatment of otologic conditions. Ca taracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma are the most sight-threatening ocular diseases of aging. Visual loss usual ly occurs gradually and may go unrecognized for some time. Primary car e screening is important to preserve sight and prevent disability and loss of function.