Windows to their world: The effect of sensory impairments on social engagement and activity time in nursing home residents

Author(s): Fries, B. E., Verbrugge, L. M.

Journal/Book: J Gerontol Ser B Psychol Sci. 1997; 52: 1275 K Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005-4006. Gerontological Society Amer. S135-S144.

Abstract: This study examined relationships between three sensory and communication abilities and two areas of nursing home resident behavior. Data from 18,873 nursing home residents include measures of hearing, visual, and communication abilities, and social engagement and time spent in activities. Increasing level of visual impairment is associated with low levels of social engagement and low rime in activities. Both moderate and severe hearing impairment are associated with low time in activities, while inadequate communication is associated with limits in both social engagement and rime in activities. The combined effects of visual and communication impairments are associated with low social engagement. Increased attention to sensory and communication losses may lead to improved quality of life in this population.

Note: Article Fries BE, Univ Michigan, Inst Gerontol, 300 N Ingalls, Ann Arbor,MI 48109 USA

Keyword(s): MINI-MENTAL-STATE; HEARING-LOSS; MDS DATA; PERFORMANCE; HEALTH; DISABILITY; VISION; IMPACT; SCALE; AGE

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