Hearing and Balance Survey in Thai Elders

Objective: To survey hearing and balance problems of a sampling group of Thai elders in the central region of Thailand. Methods: A population study was people aged 60 and over who agreed to join the survey at the 14 elderly social associations. The questionnaires were used as a self-report for hearing and balance problems. After ears examination by ENT specialists, the participants underwent air-conduction audiometry for hearing screening. Results: 828 participants (259 (31.3%) males and 569 (68.7%) females, age ranged from 60 to 97 (median=68, mean ± SD = 69.65 ± 6.89 years), had completed screening program for hearing and balance problems using both questionnaires and examinations. There was a statistically significant correlation between self-report hearing loss and severe or profound hearing loss in both ears (P 70 years old especially in those with underlying diseases. Hearing and balance screening will provide early detection and primary intervention to minimize the negative impact in the elderly’s daily life.