Cochlear Implant in the Elderly: Results in Terms of Speech Perception and Quality of Life

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results after cochlear implant (CI) in elderly patients and to compare them to those obtained in younger adult patients. A possible correlation between the results in older CI recipients and some variables of the patients was also investigated. Methods: The sample consisted of 107 patients over 40 years of age at surgery divided into 3 subgroups according to age at implantation. Results in terms of speech perception in silence and with background noise were compared between the 3 groups. The patients also completed the Glasgow Benefits Inventory (GBI) questionnaire. Results: Older patients achieved significant benefits after CI with regard to speech perception in silence and with background noise. We also recorded benefits for the GBI. Discussion: In line with the literature, our data confirm that CI is an effective procedure also in elderly patients, conferring benefits in speech perception and quality of life.