COCHLEAR IMPLANTATION IN THE ELDERLY

The purpose of this study was to compare the audiologic and surgical results of elderly patients receiving cochlear implants with other adult patients, and to evaluate the benefit of cochlear implantation in the geriatric population. Twenty-eight patients, aged 60 to 80 years, who received the Nucleus 22 channel cochlear implant were studied retrospectively. Mean audiologic test scores increased significantly after implantation. Postoperative audiologic test scores of this elderly population are comparable to those of a matched group of younger adult patients. The surgical procedure was well tolerated in all elderly patients, and there were two postoperative complications requiring revision procedures. A questionnaire was used to assess implant use and the impact of cochlear implantation on the quality of life in this elderly population. Average implant use per day was 13.8 hours, and 65% of patients were able to recognize voices over the telephone. More than 80% of patients believed that their quality of life had improved significantly, that their self-confidence had increased, and that their decision regarding implantation was correct. The results of this Study indicate that elderly patients with bilateral, profound, sensorineural hearing loss should not be denied consideration for cochlear implantation based on age alone.