Prevalence, risk factors and self-reported medical causes of seeing and hearing-related disabilities among older adults

The prevalence, risk factors, and medical conditions associated with seeing and hearing disabilities were examined among Canadian adults aged 55 years and older. A probability sample of respondents from the 1986 and 1991 Cana dian Census were selected to complete the 1986 and 1991 Health and Activity Limitations Survey (HALS). Seniors, 65 years and older, were more likely t han 55-64 year olds to experience a sensory disability. Men were more likel y than women to report having hearing disabilities, while women were more l ikely to report seeing disabilities than men. Increased age and lower total household incomes were associated with a greater likelihood of having a se nsory disability. Cataracts and deafness were reported most often as the ca use of seeing and hearing ADL restrictions in both age groups. Sensory disa bilities are prevalent conditions among older adults. Public health initiat ives should focus on hearing and seeing disabilities particularly among sen iors, women, and the lower income level population.