Health and disability assessment in individuals with hearing loss: a longitudinal study using WHODAS 2.0Purpose To assess the self-perception of health and disability of individuals with bilateral hearing loss (HL) before and after one year of using hearing aids, using the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0).
Methods Longitudinal, observational and analytical-descriptive study, approved by the research ethics committee under opinion number 6.767.314, in which 15 individuals diagnosed with mild to severe hearing loss and wearing bilateral hearing aids (HA) were assessed. The WHODAS 2.0 was applied at the time of fitting and reapplied after one year of use. The mean scores in the six domains of the instrument (cognition, mobility, self-care, getting along, life activities and participation) were statistically analyzed.
Results A reduction in disability was observed after using HA, with an average reduction of 12% in WHODAS scores. Domains such as cognition, self-care, and participation showed statistical differences.
Conclusion WHODAS 2.0 proved effective in assessing and monitoring disability and its impact on the functioning of individuals with HL, being sensitive to changes promoted by the use of HA, despite the absence of statistical significance in some variables.
Keywords:
Hearing; Hearing Loss; International Classification of Functioning; Disability and Health; Hearing Aids; Hearing Impairment Rehabilitation