Cochlear Implantation Outcomes in the Older Adult: A Scoping Review
Cochlear Implants International
Kay-Rivest, E., Schlacter, J., et al. (2022).
Cochlear Implants International, 23(5), 280-290.
This systematic review investigates cochlear implantation outcomes (e.g. perioperative complications, speech perception, neurocognition, quality of life, vestibular dysfunction, and fall rates) in adults, 60 years or older.
None declared
Not specified
Peer-reviewed studies
97
<p class="MsoNormal">Findings demonstrated either stability or improvement in cognition at one year after cochlear implantation for individuals over the age of 60, with working memory and processing speed being the most improved.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Findings demonstrated increased quality of life following cochlear implantation in individuals over the age of 60 equal to or higher than younger patients., Improvements were noted in basic sound perception, advanced sound perception, speech production, self-esteem, activity, and social interactions.</p>
Findings demonstrated a paucity of data surrounding vestibular function changes after cochlear implantation in adults over the age of 60. Mild declines were noted in caloric measures status post implantation in one study, potentially explained by global decline in inner ear functioning. One study reported an increased number of patients with unsteadiness, however no significant difference in fall rates were noted between older and younger patients. Further high-quality research is needed to determine the impacts of cochlear implants on vestibular function in older patients.
<p class="MsoNormal">Findings demonstrated increases in mean speech perception scores status post cochlear implantation in adults over the age of 60 for monosyllabic words ( 7.9% to 52.8%), bisyllabic words (26% to 78.5%), sentences in quiet (13.6% to 70.7%), and sentences in noise (8% to 68.1%). Adverse events included wound issues, temporary vertigo, facial paresis, cardiac arrhythmias, cerebrovascular events, urinary retention, and delirium.</p>
