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Koesters NB, Minhas R, Wittich W, McMenemy A, Johnson C. Visualizing Worldwide Prevalence of Age-Related Dual Sensory Loss. J Aging Health 2024:8982643241263879. [PMID: 38910320 DOI: 10.1177/08982643241263879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to create a first visualization of global prevalence of age-related dual sensory loss (DSL), significantly affecting older people's quality of life. Methods: Data from World Health Organization (WHO) regions, particularly African, American, and European, were analyzed. The study focused on DSL onset and prevalence, using adjusted life expectancy for regional comparison. Results: There were notable regional variations in DSL onset and prevalence. The African region showed consistent data, thanks to standardized methods from the World Federation of the Deafblind. However, global patterns varied when adjusted for life expectancy, hinting at possible DSL prevalence stabilization at older ages. Discussion: The study identifies a lack of standardization in DSL prevalence research regarding definitions, methodologies, and reporting. It calls for more uniform and thorough research methods for accurate global DSL understanding. The research highlights the complexity and challenges in determining DSL prevalence worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renu Minhas
- Department of Research and Training, Deafblind Ontario, Newmarket, ON, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Worm M, Damen S, Janssen MJ, Minnaert AEMG. Using intervention mapping to develop an intervention for multiparty communication with people with congenital deafblindness. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299428. [PMID: 38723042 PMCID: PMC11081490 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to their dual sensory impairment, people with congenital deafblindness (CDB) are rarely naturally involved in other people's conversations. Their communication partners find it challenging to include them in group conversations. However, overhearing others communicate is important for developing social and communication skills. Hence, we developed an intervention program to guide communication partners in offering multiparty communication to people with CDB. This article describes how the program was developed through an intervention mapping approach. METHOD Intervention mapping is a six-step process: logic model, model of change, program design, program production, program implementation plan, and evaluation plan. These six steps were applied to systematically develop a program to foster multiparty communication in people with CDB. Representatives of the involved groups participated in the project group and the working group to ensure feasibility and acceptability. RESULTS Following the intervention mapping steps resulted in creation of a program for communication partners that consists of an education session, practicals, and four video-feedback sessions. Information sessions for practitioners and managers were also developed. The program was implemented incrementally with program implementers in each organization. A subjective evaluation and an impact evaluation were done after each implementation phase. DISCUSSION Intervention mapping was used to develop a program that connects theory to practice. The program appeared to meet the communication partners' needs and be feasible in terms of time investment. This article offers suggestions for broadening the scope of the program to other settings and for further investigating the effects of the program on the social and communication skills of people with CDB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijkje Worm
- Bartiméus, Zeist, The Netherlands
- Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Nieuwenhuis Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Damen
- Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Nieuwenhuis Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Royal Kentalis, Kentalis Academy, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen J. Janssen
- Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Nieuwenhuis Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander E. M. G. Minnaert
- Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Nieuwenhuis Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Arcous M, Potier R, Dumet N. Psychological and social consequences of deafblindness for siblings: a systematic literature review. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1102206. [PMID: 38725955 PMCID: PMC11081029 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1102206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The onset of deafblindness profoundly impacts both the individual with this condition and the individual's family, including siblings. While current studies have primarily focused on the impact felt by parents or spouses, the distinct experiences of siblings have received comparatively less attention. This systematic review addresses the existing research gap regarding the psychological and social consequences experienced by siblings of individuals with deafblindness. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Dissertations & Theses (on ProQuest), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS), Sociological Abstracts, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cairn Info. Seven studies were identified as meeting the eligibility criteria for inclusion. The review revealed that siblings of individuals with deafblindness face psychological and social challenges, including emotions such as feelings of neglect, resentment, embarrassment, jealousy, and anxiety. Siblings also grapple with communication difficulties, contributing to feelings of exclusion and insecurity. In addition, these siblings take on significant responsibilities within the family and encounter obstacles in forming relationships outside the family. These findings underscore the need of interventions to improve the well-being of siblings of individuals with deafblindness by addressing their psycho-emotional needs and promoting positive social interactions. These findings align with studies conducted on siblings of children with other disabilities. However, additional research is crucial to investigate overlooked dimensions, particularly positive factors like coping mechanisms and resilience, that may influence the mental health and social experiences of these siblings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Arcous
- Centre de Recherche Psychanalyse, Médecine et Société, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Rémy Potier
- Centre de Recherche en Psychopathologie et Psychologie Clinique, Université Lumière Lyon 2, Lyon, France
| | - Nathalie Dumet
- Centre de Recherche en Psychopathologie et Psychologie Clinique, Université Lumière Lyon 2, Lyon, France
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Arias-Peso B, Calero-Ramos ML, López-Ladrón García de la Borbolla C, López-Domínguez M, Morillo-Sánchez MJ, Méndez-Martínez S, Sánchez-Gómez S, Rodríguez-de-la-Rúa E. Multidisciplinary approach to inherited causes of dual sensory impairment. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024; 262:701-715. [PMID: 37341837 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-023-06153-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This article presents a review of the main causes of inherited dual sensory impairment (DSI) with an emphasis on the multidisciplinary approach. METHODS A narrative review of English literature published before January 2023 was conducted using PubMed, Medline, and Scopus databases. The different causes of inherited DSI are discussed from a multidisciplinary perspective. RESULTS There are a wide range of dual sensory impairment (DSI), commonly referred to as blindness and deafness. While Usher syndrome is the most frequent genetic cause, other genetic syndromes such as Alport syndrome or Stickler syndrome can also lead to DSI. Various retinal phenotypes, including pigmentary retinopathy as seen in Usher syndrome, vitreoretinopathy as in Stickler syndrome, and macular dystrophy as in Alport syndrome, along with type of hearing loss (sensorineural or conductive) and additional systemic symptoms can aid in diagnostic suspicion. A thorough ophthalmologic and otorhinolaryngologic examination can help guide diagnosis, which can then be confirmed with genetic studies, crucial for determining prognosis. Effective hearing rehabilitation measures, such as hearing implants, and visual rehabilitation measures, such as low vision optical devices, are crucial for maintaining social interaction and proper development in these patients. CONCLUSIONS While Usher syndrome is the primary cause of inherited dual sensory impairment (DSI), other genetic syndromes can also lead to this condition. A proper diagnostic approach based on retinal phenotypes and types of hearing loss can aid in ruling out alternative causes. Multidisciplinary approaches can assist in reaching a definitive diagnosis, which has significant prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borja Arias-Peso
- Department of Ophthalmology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, 1-3 Isabel la Católica Street, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Miguel Servet Ophthalmology Research Group (GIMSO), Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | - Silvia Méndez-Martínez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, 1-3 Isabel la Católica Street, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Miguel Servet Ophthalmology Research Group (GIMSO), Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Serafin Sánchez-Gómez
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Virgen Macarena University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | - Enrique Rodríguez-de-la-Rúa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Virgen Macarena University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology Area, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Park W, Liu Y, Jiao Y, Shi R, Nan J, Yiu CK, Huang X, Chen Y, Li W, Gao Y, Zhang Q, Li D, Jia S, Gao Z, Song W, Lam MMH, Dai Z, Zhao Z, Li Y, Yu X. Skin-Integrated Wireless Odor Message Delivery Electronics for the Deaf-blind. ACS NANO 2023; 17:21947-21961. [PMID: 37917185 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Deaf-blindness limits daily human activities, especially interactive modes of audio and visual perception. Although the developed standards have been verified as alternative communication methods, they are uncommon to the nondisabled due to the complicated learning process and inefficiency in terms of communicating distance and throughput. Therefore, the development of communication techniques employing innate sensory abilities including olfaction related to the cerebral limbic system processing emotions, memories, and recognition has been suggested for reducing the training level and increasing communication efficiency. Here, a skin-integrated and wireless olfactory interface system exploiting arrays of miniaturized odor generators (OGs) based on melting/solidifying odorous wax to release smell is introduced for establishing an advanced communication system between deaf-blind and non-deaf-blind. By optimizing the structure design of the OGs, each OG device is as small as 0.24 cm3 (length × width × height of 11 mm × 10 mm × 2.2 mm), enabling integration of up to 8 OGs on the epidermis between nose and lip for direct and rapid olfactory drive with a weight of only 24.56 g. By generating single or mixed odors, different linked messages could be delivered to a user within a short period in a wireless and programmable way. By adopting the olfactory interface message delivery system, the recognition rates for the messages have been improved 1.5 times that of the touch-based method, while the response times were immensely decreased 4 times. Thus, the presented wearable olfactory interface system exhibits great potential as an alternative message delivery method for the deaf-blind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiming Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanli Jiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Shi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Nan
- Institute of Solid Mechanics, Beihang University (BUAA), Beijing 100191 People's Republic of China
| | - Chun Ki Yiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingcan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyang Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyu Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dengfeng Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengxin Jia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhan Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weike Song
- China Special Equipment Inspection and Research Institute, Beijing 100029 People's Republic of China
| | - Marcus Man Ho Lam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenxue Dai
- College of Construction Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130026, People's Republic of China
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao 266520, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Zhao
- China Special Equipment Inspection and Research Institute, Beijing 100029 People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhang Li
- Institute of Solid Mechanics, Beihang University (BUAA), Beijing 100191 People's Republic of China
- Aircraft and Propulsion Laboratory, Ningbo Institute of Technology Beihang University (BUAA), Ningbo 315100, People's Republic of China
- Tianmushan Laboratory Xixi Octagon City, Yuhang District, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Xinge Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, 999077, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
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Theil A, Buchweitz L, Schulz AS, Korn O. Understanding the perceptions and experiences of the deafblind community about digital games. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2023; 18:1347-1356. [PMID: 35043736 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2021.2008026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Participation and accessibility issues faced by gamers with multi-sensory disabilities are themes yet to be fully understood by accessible technology researchers. In this work, we examine the personal experiences and perceptions of individuals with deafblindness who play games despite their disability, as well as the reasons that lead some of them to stop playing games. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted 60 semi-structured interviews with individuals living with deafblindness in five European countries: United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Greece and Sweden. RESULTS Participants stated that reasons for playing games included them being a fun and entertaining hobby, for socialization and meeting others, or for occupying the mind. Reasons for stop playing games included essentially accessibility issues, followed by high cognitive demand, changes in gaming experience due their disability, financial reasons, or because the accessible version of a specific game was not considered as fun as the original one. CONCLUSIONS We identified that a considerable number of individuals with deafblindness enjoy playing casual mobile games such as Wordfeud and Sudoku as a pastime activity. Despite challenging accessibility issues, games provide meaningful social interactions to players with deafblindness. Finally, we introduce a set of user-driven recommendations for making digital games more accessible to players with a diverse combination of sensory abilities.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONDigital games were considered a fun and entertaining hobby by participants with deafblindness. Furthermore, participants play games for socialization and meeting others, or for occupying the mind.Digital games provide meaningful social interactions and past time to persons with deafblindness.On top of accessibility implications, our findings draw attention to the importance of the social element of gaming for persons with deafblindness.Based on interviews, we introduce a set of user-driven recommendations for making digital games more accessible to players with a diverse combination of sensory abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Theil
- Digital Media Technology Lab, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lea Buchweitz
- Affective and Cognitive Institute, Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Annika S Schulz
- Affective and Cognitive Institute, Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Korn
- Affective and Cognitive Institute, Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Offenburg, Germany
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Paramasivam A, Jaiswal A, Budhiraja S, Holzhey P, Santhakumaran P, Ogedengbe T, Martin J, DAS S, Côté S, Hassid R, James TG, Kennedy B, Tang D, Tran Y, Colson-Osborne H, Li Chen Che M, Minhas R, Granberg S, Wittich W. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Set for deafblindness. Part I: a systematic review of outcome measures. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2023; 59:615-627. [PMID: 37458491 PMCID: PMC10664768 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.23.07890-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF), developed by the World Health Organization, is a classification framework that focuses on the health and functioning of people with disabilities. As part of an ICF Core Set development, four studies need to be conducted, one of which is a systematic review. This study presents part 1 of the systematic review that aims to describe the outcome measures identified in the literature related to functioning in individuals with deafblindness. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The research team screened articles from eight scientific databases, three journals, and Google Scholar (March 2011 to September 2022). Articles were included if they studied individuals with deafblindness aged 18 and older. Studies that examined genetics or laboratory experiments involving animals were excluded. Data were extracted into a logbook with key descriptors such as study location and design, age of study population, and instruments/outcome measures used, which were further categorized into one of the following types: 1) standardized; 2) patient-reported measures, standardized (PT-S); 3) patient-reported measures, not standardized (PT-not S); 4) health professional, reported measures, standardized (HP-S); 5) Technical measures; 6) other measures (parent-reported standardized and laboratory measures). EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The review included 147 studies, of which most were conducted in Europe (47.6%) and North America (27.9%). Of the 314 identified outcome measures, 57 were Standardized, 59 were Patient Reported-Standardized (PT-S), 178 were patient reported non-standardized (PT-Not S) variables, 11 were health professional reported, standardized, five were technical, and four were classified as other measures. CONCLUSIONS Most instruments measured functioning in daily activities and the mental health of individuals with deafblindness. Three deafblind-specific instruments were identified in this study, highlighting the need for more deafblind-specific instruments to be developed and utilized in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abinethaa Paramasivam
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada -
| | - Shreya Budhiraja
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Peter Holzhey
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Praveena Santhakumaran
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tosin Ogedengbe
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jana Martin
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Supriya DAS
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Samuel Côté
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Romina Hassid
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tyler G James
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Beth Kennedy
- Central Michigan University, Mt Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Diana Tang
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yvvone Tran
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Muriel Li Chen Che
- CRESAM National Center of Rare Disabilities and Deafblindness, Saint Benoit, France
| | - Renu Minhas
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Granberg
- Örebro University, School of Health Sciences, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Walter Wittich
- Wittich Vision Impairment Research Lab, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Veenman E, Roelofs AAJ, Stolwijk ML, Bootsma AM, van Nispen RMA. Experiences of people with dual sensory loss in various areas of life: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0272890. [PMID: 37682938 PMCID: PMC10490834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with dual sensory loss (DSL) appear to have limited ability to compensate for their visual impairment with residual hearing, or for their hearing impairment with residual vision, resulting in challenges in various areas of life. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the diverse experiences facing individuals with DSL as well as to determine how they experience sensory compensation. Semi-structured interviews were carried out in twenty adults with DSL (13 females and 7 males, mean age 47 years). The causes of DSL severity varied amongst participants. Sensory compensation and experiences in regards to access to information, mobility, communication and fatigue were discussed. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was used to summarize and interpret the data. In relation to access to information, our results show that, despite various challenges, the use of assistive technology such as voice command functions, enabled participants to operate effectively. Regarding mobility, most participants were capable of finding their way in familiar environments. However, if the setting was unfamiliar, assistance from others or reliance on navigation applications was necessary. Participants experienced little issues with having conversations in quiet settings, however, crowded settings were considered very difficult. The final results showed that most participants suffered from fatigue. Carefully considering which daily activities were feasible and having a daily routine helped to cope with fatigue. This study revealed the experiences of individuals with DSL in important areas of life. The results suggest that, even though many challenges are experienced, individuals with DSL are resourceful in finding compensation strategies. However, capturing participants' sensory compensation experiences was challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Veenman
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Ophthalmology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - M. L. Stolwijk
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Ophthalmology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A. M. Bootsma
- Royal Dutch Visio – Het Loo Erf, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - R. M. A. van Nispen
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Ophthalmology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Chorfi S, Place EM, Huckfeldt RM. Disparities in Inherited Retinal Degenerations. Semin Ophthalmol 2023; 38:201-206. [PMID: 36536519 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2022.2152715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
To review disparities in the field of inherited retinal degenerations to establish foundations for future discussions oriented toward finding possible solutions. A narrative overview of the literature. Despite collective efforts towards democratization of genetic testing and investigation, genetic databases containing primarily European populations are heavily relied upon. Access to specialized care and other resources is also still not available to all. Recognizing and addressing disparities and inequities within the field of inherited retinal degenerations will improve our care of these patients and our knowledge of their conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Chorfi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Ocular Genomics Institute, Boston, MS, USA
| | - Emily M Place
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Ocular Genomics Institute, Boston, MS, USA
| | - Rachel M Huckfeldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Ocular Genomics Institute, Boston, MS, USA
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10
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Bright T, Ramke J, Zhang JH, Kitema GF, Safi S, Mdala S, Yoshizaki M, Brennan-Jones CG, Mactaggart I, Gordon I, Swenor BK, Burton MJ, Evans JR. Prevalence and impact of combined vision and hearing (dual sensory) impairment: A scoping review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001905. [PMID: 37192147 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Hearing and vision impairments are common globally. They are often considered separately in research, and in planning and delivering services. However, they can occur concurrently, termed dual sensory impairment (DSI). The prevalence and impact of hearing and vision impairment have been well-examined, but there has been much less consideration of DSI. The aim of this scoping review was to determine the nature and extent of the evidence on prevalence and impact of DSI. Three databases were searched: MEDLINE, Embase and Global Health (April 2022). We included primary studies and systematic reviews reporting the prevalence or impact of DSI. No limits were placed on age, publication dates, or country. Only studies where the full text was available in English were included. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstract, full texts. Data were charted by two reviewers independently using a pre-piloted form. The review identified 183 reports of 153 unique primary studies and 14 review articles. Most evidence came from high-income countries (86% of reports). Prevalence varied across reports, as did age groups of participants and definitions used. The prevalence of DSI increased with age. Impact was examined across three broad groups of outcomes-psychosocial, participation, and physical health. There was a strong trend towards poorer outcomes for people with DSI across all categories compared to people with one or neither impairment, including activities of daily living (worse for people with DSI in 78% of reports) and depression (68%). This scoping review highlights that DSI is a relatively common condition with substantial impact, particularly among older adults. There is a gap in evidence from low and middle-income countries. There is a pressing need for a consensus position on the definition(s) of DSI and standardisation of reporting age groups to enable reliable estimates to be ascertained and compared and responsive services developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess Bright
- Indigenous Health Equity Unit, Centre for Health Equity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Ramke
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Justine H Zhang
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gatera Fiston Kitema
- Ophthalmology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Sare Safi
- Ophthalmic Epidemiology Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shaffi Mdala
- Ophthalmology Department, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Miho Yoshizaki
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher G Brennan-Jones
- Ear Health Group, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Department of Audiology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Islay Mactaggart
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iris Gordon
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bonnielin K Swenor
- The Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer R Evans
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Public Health, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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11
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Guthrie DM, Williams N, Jaiswal A, Mick P, O’Rourke HM, Pichora-Fuller MK, Wittich W, Sutradhar R. Prevalence of sensory impairments in home care and long-term care using interRAI data from across Canada. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:944. [PMID: 36482317 PMCID: PMC9733010 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03671-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the general population, sensory impairments increase markedly with age in adults over 60 years of age. We estimated the prevalence of hearing loss only (HL), vision loss only (VL), and a combined impairment (i.e., dual sensory loss or DSL) in Canadians receiving home care (HC) or long-term care (LTC). METHODS Annual cross-sectional analyses were conducted using data collected with one of two interRAI assessments, one used for the HC setting (n = 2,667,199), and one for LTC (n = 1,538,691). Items in the assessments were used to measure three mutually exclusive outcomes: prevalence of VL only, HL only, or DSL. Trends over time for each outcome were examined using the Cochran-Armitage trend test. A negative binomial model was used to quantify the trends over time for each outcome while adjusting for age, sex and province. RESULTS In HC, there was a significant trend in the rate for all three outcomes (p < 0.001), with a small increase (roughly 1%) each year. In HC, HL was the most prevalent sensory loss, with a rate of roughly 25% to 29%, while in LTC, DSL was the most prevalent impairment, at roughly 25% across multiple years of data. In both settings, roughly 60% of the sample was female. Males in both HC and LTC had a higher prevalence of HL compared to females, but the differences were very small (no more than 2% in any given year). The prevalence of HL differed by province after adjusting for year, age and sex. Compared to Ontario, Yukon Territory had a 26% higher rate of HL in HC (relative rate [RR] = 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.11, 1.43), but LTC residents in Newfoundland and Labrador had a significantly lower rate of HL (RR: 0.57; CI: 0.43, 0.76).When combined, approximately 60% of LTC residents, or HC clients, had at least one sensory impairment. CONCLUSIONS Sensory impairments are highly prevalent in both HC and LTC, with small sex-related differences and some variation across Canadian provinces. The interRAI assessments provide clinicians with valuable information to inform care planning and can also be used to estimate the prevalence of these impairments in specific population sub-groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn M. Guthrie
- grid.268252.90000 0001 1958 9263Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON Canada ,grid.268252.90000 0001 1958 9263Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Nicole Williams
- grid.268252.90000 0001 1958 9263Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec Canada
| | - Paul Mick
- grid.25152.310000 0001 2154 235XDepartment of Surgery, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK Canada
| | - Hannah M. O’Rourke
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XFaculty of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | | | - Walter Wittich
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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12
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Quality of Life in Deafblind People and Its Effect on the Processes of Educational Adaptation and Social Inclusion in Canary Islands, Spain. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci12070490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Deafblindness is a unique and complex disability. Research on the needs and quality of life are scarce; as well as the lack of adequate knowledge, training and lack of qualified professionals to serve this group. All this justifies the sense and interest of this study. This study is derived from the project with reference 2020EDU04. Design: The study is descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative-qualitative research design was conducted. Objectives: Know and analyze the needs of adult deafblind people in order to contribute to improving their quality of life. Method: Sample of 16 adults with double sensory loss (hearing and vision) residing in the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands (Spain) was used. Instruments: The FUMAT Scale was used to measure personal development; self-determination; interpersonal relationships; social inclusion; rights of deafblind people; emotional well-being; physical well-being and material well-being. In addition, a semi-structured interview is conducted. Results by dimensions: Personal development: The professionals did not have specialized training to provide an educational response. Physical well-being: 68% of the sample had other health problems associated with deafblindness. Interpersonal relationships: 100% of the sample reported communication problems in the family environment. Social inclusion: They reported difficulties in accessing educational and leisure activities. Material well-being: In general, they stated that they have the material resources necessary for their daily lives. Self-determination: they consider that they have decision-making capacity in basic aspects of daily life. Rights: Deafblind people state that they have limitations in exercising their rights. Based on the interviews, it was observed that the people with the greatest difficulties in daily life are those who presented the greatest visual commitment. Conclusion: The etiology does not determine the quality of life of deafblind people, but communication conditions interpersonal relationships and personal development, and therefore their quality of life.
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13
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Moroe N, Masuku K, Shirame L. Rehabilitation healthcare professionals' competence and confidence in differentially diagnosing deafblindness from autism spectrum disorders: a cross-sectional survey in South Africa. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:194. [PMID: 35313865 PMCID: PMC8939183 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03258-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early diagnosis and management of children who are deafblind is important to alleviate the effects of deafblindness on the development of the child who is deafblind and their families. However, children who are deafblind are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late. The misdiagnosis or late diagnosis has been attributed to many factors, one of which is the competence and confidence of healthcare professionals in differentially diagnosing deafblindness from other conditions, in most cases, autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study therefore aimed to establish the competence and confidence of rehabilitation healthcare professionals in differentially diagnosing deafblindness from ASD in the South African context. METHODS A cross-sectional survey design was employed for the study. An online questionnaire was distributed to rehabilitation healthcare professionals (N = 78) via Survey Monkey. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Ethical clearance and permission were obtained from relevant stakeholders prior to the commencement of the study. RESULTS Regarding the rehabilitation healthcare professionals in this study, 54% were competent in diagnosing ASD, while only 35% could correctly diagnose deafblindness. In some instances, symptoms were classified as associated with both ASD and deafblindness, when they were just those of deafblindness. Of all the rehabilitation healthcare professionals in this study, speech language therapists displayed the most knowledge of deafblindness. Furthermore, healthcare professionals who had between one and nine years of working experience had more knowledge of deafblindness than other professionals with more or less experience. CONCLUSION Deafblindness is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as ASD. This is due to the lack of competence and confidence of rehabilitation healthcare professionals in diagnosing it. The findings therefore highlight the need for training of rehabilitation healthcare professionals. Training on deafblindness could be included as part of the curriculum in the various undergraduate programs. Deafblindness could also form part of the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) training programs at various healthcare facilities. A team approach to the training would be ideal as it would facilitate peer learning and support. More research is required as it would inform evidence-based assessment, and management and support strategies for children who are deafblind and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nomfundo Moroe
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Khetsiwe Masuku
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lebogang Shirame
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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14
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A salutogenesis approach to ageing with impairment: the managing and coping experiences of older people ageing with deafblindness. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x22000083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
An understanding of the psychosocial impact of deafblindness on older people is impoverished by a dearth of research in the field. Particularly limited are studies adopting a salutogenesis perspective, in which older deafblind people's coping capacities are explored. Much research focuses on vulnerability to unfavourable outcomes, which may perpetuate negative stereotypes of deafblind people as passive and dependent. Identifying deafblind people as a vulnerable group gives rise to misunderstanding of the impairment, perceptions of incapability and neglect of deafblind people's agency. This paper draws on data from the first United Kingdom-based study of vulnerability from the perspectives of older adults ageing with deafblindness. Findings presented here relate to participants’ experiences of managing and coping with their felt vulnerability and ageing with deafblindness. The study adopted interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) as its qualitative approach. In-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken between October 2014 and July 2016 with eight participants, aged between 48 and 83 years. Data were analysed using an iterative six-step IPA process. Three superordinate themes were identified: taking action to protect self; psychological coping strategies; and accessing and using care and support. Participants’ managing and coping strategies, and the care and support they value, respond to elements identified as generating felt vulnerability. Professionals should seek to bolster coping capacity and provide support in ways valued by those ageing with deafblindness.
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15
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Killeen OJ, Xiang X, Powell D, Reed NS, Deal JA, Swenor BK, Ehrlich JR. Longitudinal Associations of Self-Reported Visual, Hearing, and Dual Sensory Difficulties With Symptoms of Depression Among Older Adults in the United States. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:786244. [PMID: 35153667 PMCID: PMC8829390 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.786244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence conflicts on the association between sensory difficulty and depression. Few studies have examined this association using longitudinal or population-based data. We used data from Rounds 1-9 of the nationally representative National Health and Aging Trends Study to evaluate the longitudinal association between self-reported visual, hearing, and dual sensory difficulties and clinically significant depressive symptoms. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to evaluate the hazard of incident depressive symptoms. Group-based trajectory modeling identified depressive symptom trajectories (DSTs). Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the association between sensory status and DSTs. A total of 7,593 participants were included: 56.5% were female, 53.0% were 65-74 years old, 19.0% (95% CI 17.9-20.2%) had hearing, 5.6% (4.9-6.4%) had visual, and 3.3% (2.9-3.8%) had dual sensory difficulties at baseline. Hazard ratios for depressive symptoms in those with visual, hearing, and dual sensory difficulties were 1.25 (95% CI 1.00-1.56, p = 0.047), 0.98 (95% CI 0.82-1.18, p = 0.82), and 1.67 (95% CI 1.29-2.16, p < 0.001), respectively, relative to those without sensory difficulty. A model with four trajectory groups best fit the data. Group 1 (35.8% of the sample, 95% CI: 34.1-37.4) had persistently low risk of depressive symptoms; Group 2 (44.8%, 43.4-46.3) had low but increasing risk; Group 3 (7.1%, 6.2-8.3) had moderate risk; and Group 4 (12.4%, 11.5-13.3) had moderate to high risk that increased. Compared to those without sensory difficulties, individuals with each difficulty were significantly more likely to belong to a group other than Group 1. This study reveals associations between sensory difficulties and mental health that can inform public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia J. Killeen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States,Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Xiaoling Xiang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Danielle Powell
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicholas S. Reed
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States,Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Deal
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States,Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Bonnielin K. Swenor
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,Center on Aging and Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Joshua R. Ehrlich
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States,Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States,Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States,*Correspondence: Joshua R. Ehrlich,
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16
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Minhas R, Jaiswal A, Chan S, Trevisan J, Paramasivam A, Spruyt-Rocks R. Prevalence of Individuals with Deafblindness and Age-Related Dual-Sensory Loss. JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT & BLINDNESS 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/0145482x211072541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The authors of this paper have compiled a report on the prevalence of deafblindness and dual-sensory loss based on the review of existing estimates. The purpose is to inform readers of the importance of using consistent, well-researched definitions and survey questions in future prevalence studies. Methods Articles were extracted through ProQuest and EBSCOhost, online library databases of Cambrian College and Laurentian University. Keywords search included “deafblindness,” “dual-sensory impairment,” “dual-sensory loss,” “age-related,” “congenital,” “acquired,” and “prevalence.” Additionally, the authors conducted a search with Google for research reports and Google Scholar for other relevant peer-reviewed articles. Results This review provides a current overview of prevalence estimates of deafblindness and age-related dual-sensory loss around the world, examining 19 articles or reports published over the last 20 years (2000–2020) in 18 countries, including the European Union (consisting of 8 countries). In line with the prevalence estimates by the World Federation for the Deafblind global report 2018, the review indicates an estimated 0.2–2% prevalence of dual-sensory impairment and underscores varying ranges of prevalence among populations, studies or countries, age groups, and types of deafblindness. The review highlights that the prevalence of deafblindness or dual-sensory loss was often not comparable across studies, but it is clear that the prevalence of dual-sensory impairment increases with age. The studies varied in methods (e.g., population surveys, cross-sectional, and longitudinal studies). Implication for practitioners The review provides evidence of varying ranges of prevalence rates. Future prevalence studies may benefit from consistent definitions, standard data-collection tools to do better comparisons across countries, and identify factors that predict higher or lower prevalence rates among populations and age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Minhas
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, ON, Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- CIHR Health System Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Serena Chan
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, ON, Canada
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17
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Jaiswal A, Aldersey H, Wittich W, Mirza M, Finlayson M. Factors that influence the participation of individuals with deafblindness: A qualitative study with rehabilitation service providers in India. BRITISH JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/0264619620941886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Evidence to inform rehabilitation service delivery for individuals with deafblindness, especially in the Indian context, is inadequate. Rehabilitation professionals often find it challenging to design rehabilitation interventions that promote participation for those with deafblindness. Therefore, our purpose was to understand the contextual factors that influence the participation of individuals with deafblindness in India from the perspectives of those who are involved in providing rehabilitation services to them. Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) as a framework, we conducted two focus group discussions with 16 rehabilitation service providers in India. We used a content analysis approach to examine the data. Rehabilitation service providers perceived participation barriers to be linked primarily to the social environment. Specifically, participants identified four major factors acting as barriers, including (a) lack of awareness about deafblindness; (b) negative attitudes and stigma associated with disability; (c) lack of access to resources such as assistive technology and interpreter support; and (d) communication challenges associated with severe impairments. Facilitators include accessibility of the built environment for multisensory impairments, affordable technology, provision of an interpreter and personal support worker, and training on deafblindness for professionals. The participation of individuals with deafblindness could be enhanced by identifying and removing environmental barriers and improving knowledge about deafblindness among rehabilitation professionals for proper identification, assessment, and access to rehabilitation services.
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18
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Paramasivam A, Jaiswal A, Minhas R, Holzhey P, Keyes K, Lopez R, Wittich W. The development of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for deafblindness: A study protocol. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261413. [PMID: 34905579 PMCID: PMC8670675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with deafblindness experience a combination of hearing and vision impairments. The World Health Organization has developed a global framework referred to as the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to describe health and functioning. From the full ICF classification, a selection of categories, referred to as ICF Core Sets, provide users with a tool to describe functioning and disability in specific health conditions. There has been no ICF Core Set created for deafblindness. Given that core sets are instrumental in improving clinical practice, research, and service delivery, the aim of this study is to develop an ICF Core Set for deafblindness. METHODS As part of the preparatory phase in the ICF Core Set development, there are four studies that will be conducted. This includes the [1] systematic literature review that examines the researcher's perspective, [2] qualitative study focusing on the individuals with deafblindness experience, [3] experts survey that looks at health professional's perspective, and [4] empirical study that examines the clinical perspective. The studies will be conducted using the principles outlined by the ICF Research Branch for the development of ICF Core Sets. The systematic literature review protocol was submitted for registration on PROSPERO CRD42021247952. DISCUSSION An ICF Core Set created for deafblindness will benefit individuals living with deafblindness who are often excluded from social participation, policies, and services. An ICF Core Set for deafblindness will have a significant impact on healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, service providers and individuals with deafblindness by facilitating communication among all stakeholder to support the functioning of those with deafblindness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Renu Minhas
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Holzhey
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Karen Keyes
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ricard Lopez
- European Deafblind Network (EDbN), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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19
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Bleau M, Jaiswal A, Holzhey P, Aubin G, Do A, Dumassais S, Mirmiran R, Tangkhpanya F, Wittich W. Use of three-dimensional printing as a rehabilitation tool for individuals with deafblindness or vision impairment: a scoping review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 19:2790-2800. [PMID: 34645775 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-20-00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to synthesize evidence on the practices involving additive manufacturing, also known as three-dimensional printing, as a rehabilitation tool to assist individuals with deafblindness or vision impairment, and to identify which International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health domains of functioning can be improved by its use. The goal is to inform health care professionals and family caregivers on how additive manufacturing may enhance the quality of life of people with deafblindness or vision impairment. INTRODUCTION Deafblindness and vision impairment impact many life domains, such as access to information, communication, and mobility. The sense of touch is the main gateway for communication for individuals living with these impairments. Additive manufacturing is a promising technology for producing customized, tactile-based, low-cost tangible objects and devices that could improve the functioning of those with sensory impairment. Emerging studies explore the benefits of additive manufacturing in rehabilitation, education, and inclusion of people living with vision impairment, but very little is known about its use for the deafblind. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will consider studies that focus on the most widespread additive manufacturing technologies for the use of individuals living with deafblindness or vision impairment, their family caregivers, or professionals who provide their rehabilitation care. METHODS A comprehensive search of 10 databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Global Health, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, Web of Science, Engineering Village, and Scopus) will be conducted. Screening of records will be done at the title/abstract level and at the full-text level by independent reviewers of the team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Bleau
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Peter Holzhey
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Aubin
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Anna Do
- MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shirley Dumassais
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Roxane Mirmiran
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada.,Centre de réadaptation Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay du CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, Montreal, QC, Canada
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20
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Unraveling the genetic complexities of combined retinal dystrophy and hearing impairment. Hum Genet 2021; 141:785-803. [PMID: 34148116 PMCID: PMC9035000 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02303-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome, the most prevalent cause of combined hereditary vision and hearing impairment, is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Moreover, several conditions with phenotypes overlapping Usher syndrome have been described. This makes the molecular diagnosis of hereditary deaf–blindness challenging. Here, we performed exome sequencing and analysis on 7 Mexican and 52 Iranian probands with combined retinal degeneration and hearing impairment (without intellectual disability). Clinical assessment involved ophthalmological examination and hearing loss questionnaire. Usher syndrome, most frequently due to biallelic variants in MYO7A (USH1B in 16 probands), USH2A (17 probands), and ADGRV1 (USH2C in 7 probands), was diagnosed in 44 of 59 (75%) unrelated probands. Almost half of the identified variants were novel. Nine of 59 (15%) probands displayed other genetic entities with dual sensory impairment, including Alström syndrome (3 patients), cone-rod dystrophy and hearing loss 1 (2 probands), and Heimler syndrome (1 patient). Unexpected findings included one proband each with Scheie syndrome, coenzyme Q10 deficiency, and pseudoxanthoma elasticum. In four probands, including three Usher cases, dual sensory impairment was either modified/aggravated or caused by variants in distinct genes associated with retinal degeneration and/or hearing loss. The overall diagnostic yield of whole exome analysis in our deaf–blind cohort was 92%. Two (3%) probands were partially solved and only 3 (5%) remained without any molecular diagnosis. In many cases, the molecular diagnosis is important to guide genetic counseling, to support prognostic outcomes and decisions with currently available and evolving treatment modalities.
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21
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Wittich W, Nicholas J, Damen S. Living with deafblindness during COVID-19: An international webinar to facilitate global knowledge translation. BRITISH JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/02646196211002887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Arguably, individuals living with deafblindness are among the hardest hit by the effects of the corona virus disease of 2019 (COVID- 19), given the importance of the sense of touch for their ability to interact with the world. To address this challenge, it is imperative to facilitate the implementation of evidence- and experience-based recommendations, and to improve knowledge translation on a global scale. Deafblind International organized a webinar to provide a platform where participants could exchange experiences and solutions to overcome the challenges created by the arrival of COVID-19, in order to facilitate information exchange among stakeholders in deafblindness during this pandemic. We present an overview of its content here and place the summarized themes in context with existing research literature. Abstract submission was open for 4 weeks in May 2020, resulting in 30 submissions from 13 countries across 5 continents. Of the 26 presenter teams, 9 (35%) had a co-presenter that was living with deafblindness themselves. The number of individual participants across all sessions ranged from 55 to 140 ( M = 98), with a total of 3709 session registrations overall, and the organizers estimate a total attendance of around 400 participants. Based on extensive field notes taken during the webinar, and repeated viewing of the recordings, qualitative description allowed the team to synthesize eight principal themes across the event: access to information, communication, service accessibility, adaptations to service delivery, online safety and security, physical distancing, mental health and research. The first Deafblind International webinar was able to fill an important gap by bringing together a variety of stakeholders in deafblindness across the globe. The event created a sense of group membership and peer support, brought the participants, researchers, the professionals as well as their service agencies closer together and generated a sense of hope and collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Wittich
- Université de Montréal, Canada; Centre de réadaptation Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay du CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Canada; Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Canada; Center for Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research of Greater Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Saskia Damen
- University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Royal Dutch Kentalis, The Netherlands
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Paramasivam A, Jaiswal A, Minhas R, Wittich W, Spruyt-Rocks R. Informed Consent or Assent Strategies for Research With Individuals With Deafblindness or Dual Sensory Impairment: A Scoping Review. Arch Rehabil Res Clin Transl 2021; 3:100115. [PMID: 34179751 PMCID: PMC8212005 DOI: 10.1016/j.arrct.2021.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesize evidence on existing informed consent/assent strategies and processes that enable the participation of individuazls with deafblindness or dual sensory impairment in research. DATA SOURCES Five scientific databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) and other sources such as Google Scholar, Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, and British Journal of Visual Impairment were hand-searched from January 2015 until July 2020. STUDY SELECTION Studies were selected using a priori inclusion criteria of sensory and cognitive disabilities and focused on consent/assent strategies and processes in research within this population. Articles related to the medical or sexual consent processes were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION An Excel spreadsheet was used to extract data from the eligible sources. Discrepancies were resolved in discussion with team members. DATA SYNTHESIS A total of 2163 sources were screened, and 16 articles were included in the review. Seven sources only examined consent strategies, whereas the remaining 8 included a combination of consent/assent and dissent strategies. Using thematic analysis, 3 key themes emerged: consent/assent strategies, researcher capacity, and capacity to consent tools. Key identified strategies included the accessibility of the consent/assent process, building relationships with participants and caregivers, identifying behavioral cues, and communication training for researchers. CONCLUSIONS Despite the absence of literature on consent/assent strategies within the population with deafblindness, the review found promising strategies applied to individuals with other cognitive or sensory disabilities that researchers can adopt. Researchers are encouraged to use best practices in creating an inclusive research environment to include individuals with deafblindness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Renu Minhas
- DeafBlind Ontario Services, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Wittich W, Granberg S, Wahlqvist M, Pichora-Fuller MK, Mäki-Torkko E. Device abandonment in deafblindness: a scoping review of the intersection of functionality and usability through the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health lens. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044873. [PMID: 33495263 PMCID: PMC7839866 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Abandonment of vision, hearing or mobility aids suggests common barriers and facilitators to ongoing device use. However, the possible interactive effects of combined hearing and vision disabilities on device use by those living with deafblindness are unclear. Here we summarise existing knowledge on variables influencing assistive technology use from the perspective of persons living with deafblindness. We used the WHO's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework to contextualise the findings, asking 'What is currently known about variables influencing the (non-)use of assistive devices recommended for persons with deafblindness?' DESIGN A scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist. DATA SOURCES PubMed; ProQuest: ERIC; ProQuest Dissertation; ProQuest: Sociological Thesaurus; Web of Science; Scientific Electronic Library Online; Bielefeld Academic Search Engine; Pascal & Francis; APA PsycINFO and Ebsco for CINAHL were searched through 9 November 2020. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included peer-reviewed studies that reported on assistive technology, device abandonment/utilisation and provided data from persons living with deafblindness. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Four team members independently scored 83 studies for eligibility. RESULTS Ten articles were chosen for data extraction. The emerging variables replicated established categories of barriers and facilitators: personal, device-related, environmental and intervention variables. The use of the ICF highlighted how an intermediate variable (eg, device acceptability) was necessary in order for a variable to become a barrier or a facilitator to device use. CONCLUSIONS The variables influencing device use by persons with deafblindness followed the same categories described for single impairments. Usability was challenged in devices that rely on the 'other' sense. Haptic and tactile aids are rarely studied. The limited available information and the dire need for assistive technologies for people with deafblindness emphasises the urgency of research and technology development for this marginalised population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarah Granberg
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Audiological Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro Universitet, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Moa Wahlqvist
- Audiological Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro Universitet, Örebro, Sweden
- Swedish Institute for Disability Research, Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Elina Mäki-Torkko
- Audiological Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro Universitet, Örebro, Sweden
- Swedish Institute for Disability Research, Örebro, Sweden
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Rodríguez J, Díaz MV, Collazos O, García-Crespo Á. GoCC4All a pervasive technology to provide access to TV to the deafblind community. Assist Technol 2021; 34:383-391. [PMID: 33200974 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2020.1829176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering the importance of communication and independence for the deafblind community, this work presents findings of the use of technology to address the lack of information due to communication challenges among the deafblind community. Over time, many investigations have been carried out regarding this matter, but very few providing solution, which is why this study emerged, looking to making all the information broadcasted through television accessible for this community. The work team designed a technology (GoCC4All) to address the needs of the deafblind community. GoCC4All provides access to captions available on TV through braille displays and mobile devices. Our research process and results outline the path for creating, adapting, and adopting new technologies for people with disabilities who have the right to access the information just as their peers without disabilities. The information in this paper is based on two surveys, an initial beta testing (BT) and a final survey among a group of 14 users (UT) who tested the GoCC4All application. Our findings support the positive impact of the iterative creation of assistive technology based on users' experience and users' recommendations to better serve the needs of the deafblind community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanita Rodríguez
- Department of Education, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico
| | - María V Díaz
- Department of Philology, Communication and Documentation, University of Alcalá De Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Olga Collazos
- Technology Innovation Department, Dicapta Foundation, Winter Springs, FL, USA
| | - Ángel García-Crespo
- Computer Sciences Department, Universidad Carlos III De Madrid, Leganes, Spain
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Jaiswal A, Martiniello N, Holzhey P, Aubin G, Dumassais S, Huang S, Major G, Mirmiran R, Tangkhpanya F, Boie NR, Wittich W. Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults With Concurrent Hearing and Vision Impairment: A Systematic Scoping Review Protocol. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:661560. [PMID: 34349679 PMCID: PMC8326366 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.661560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: As the prevalence of age-related sensory impairment increases, more evidence emerges on the association between uni-sensory and cognitive impairment (CI) in older adults. However, the link between CI and concurrent hearing and vision impairment (referred to as dual sensory impairment/DSI) is not well-understood, and this combined effect may be additive or multiplicative. Moreover, the existing evidence on CI in older adults with DSI is scattered and limited. Through this systematic scoping review, we aim to map existing evidence on CI in older adults with DSI, and to summarize what is known about the prevalence, incidence and risk factors of CI, and tools used to screen or assess CI in older adults with DSI. Methods and Analysis: We will use the Joanna Briggs Institute framework to perform the review. Eleven databases [MEDLINE, CINAHL/EBSCO, EMBASE, Mednar, WorldWideScience, PsycEXTRA, OAIster, OpenGrey (SIGLE), Global Health, PsycINFO, and Web of Science] and clinical trial registries (ISRCTN Registry, WHO ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov) will be searched. Study selection will be completed using Covidence, and data will be extracted using an a priori data extraction tool. To be included, studies had to be peer-reviewed, had older adults with DSI as the focal population, and are related to CI. Data will be presented using a narrative summary with emphasis on implications for future research and practice. Discussion: Reliable cognitive screening is of the utmost importance for prevention and treatment of CI within DSI population. The study findings will have significant implications for health services delivery and policy research. The summarized findings on the prevalence, incidence, associated risk factors, and CI screening and assessment tools will inform geriatric care. The review will also document knowledge gaps on CI in the DSI population and identify areas of interest for future studies. Ethics and Dissemination: The scoping study, being a review of existing documents, does not require ethics approval. The findings will be disseminated with relevant stakeholders using knowledge translation activities such as scientific presentations and publications. We intend to use the findings to conduct a Delphi study to evaluate which CI tools are suitable for older population with DSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Jaiswal
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada
| | | | - Peter Holzhey
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Aubin
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Stephanie Huang
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Geneviève Major
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Roxane Mirmiran
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal/Centre de Réadaptation Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay du Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux du Centre-Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Mamali FC, Lehane CM, Wittich W, Martiniello N, Dammeyer J. What couples say about living and coping with sensory loss: a qualitative analysis of open-ended survey responses. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:2784-2805. [PMID: 33272065 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1850889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The current study reports the results of open-ended questions from a follow-up survey of adults with sensory loss and their spouses who had previously taken part in an online study. In total, 111 participants completed the survey (72 adults with a sensory loss and 39 spouses). Open-ended questions asked about the overall experience of living with sensory loss, sensory loss-related challenges, and support and coping mechanisms. Thematic analysis was used to identify dominant themes in participants' responses. Three core themes capturing their overall experience emerged: (1) sensory loss-related challenges, (2) support and coping, and (3) adjustment and readjustment. Sensory loss was characterized as a challenging experience, causing communication and emotional disturbances. Coping strategies reported by both partners included the use of assistive technology, positive re-appraisal, acceptance and/or denial of the loss, while support strategies were mostly derived from the comments of spouses (for AWSLs), family members and peer networks (for both partners). Finally, respondents described sensory loss as an adventurous learning experience. Our findings underscore the significance of considering sensory loss from a social relational/family perspective and highlight the importance of addressing the needs of both adults with sensory loss and their partners in treatment and rehabilitation.Implications for rehabilitationStudy highlights the need to consider sensory loss from a relational/family perspective.Healthcare professionals should try to increase the involvement of significant others and close family members (e.g., spouses, parents, children) into the rehabilitation process.Greater emphasis should be placed on exploring and reinforcing positive experiences and attitudes associated with sensory loss during counselling/rehabilitation sessions.Improved education about sensory loss for both the general public and health care professionals could minimize the adverse outcomes associated with sensory loss.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine M Lehane
- Øster Farimagsgade 2A, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Jesper Dammeyer
- Øster Farimagsgade 2A, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Exploring Professionals' Experiences in the Rehabilitation of Older Clients with Dual-Sensory Impairment. Can J Aging 2020; 38:481-492. [PMID: 30838968 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980819000035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
En vue de mieux comprendre et d'améliorer le processus de réadaptation des personnes âgées présentant à la fois une déficience auditive et visuelle, soit une double déficience sensorielle (DDS), cette étude s'est penchée sur les perspectives des professionnels de la santé qui œuvrent chez cette population. Treize professionnels aux parcours variés ont été interviewés en lien avec leur expérience de travail auprès de personnes âgées avec DDS. Les entrevues ont été transcrites et codées, et une analyse de contenu a été effectuée. Les participants des diverses professions ont perçu qu'ils devaient assumer les rôles additionnels suivants : (1) conseiller, (2) guide, (3) formateur ou rééducateur. Ces rôles consistaient à aider les personnes avec DDS et leurs familles présentant une dépression, des problèmes d'acceptation, des consultations répétées et des parcours complexes dans le système de santé. Selon les professionnels interviewés, ces rôles supplémentaires accroissent leur charge de travail et les confrontent à des problématiques pour lesquelles ils n'ont pas reçu de formation. Ils suggèrent l'implantation d'une formation sur les DDS pour les professionnels et les membres de la famille concernés, ainsi qu'une approche de réadaptation en équipe multidisciplinaire. To better understand and improve the rehabilitation process of older adults with sensory losses in both hearing and vision or dual sensory impairment (DSI), this study explored the perspectives of health care professionals who work with this population. Thirteen individuals, with varied professional backgrounds, were interviewed about their experiences in working with older adults with DSI. We transcribed and coded the interviews, then conducted content analysis. Regardless of their professional backgrounds, the participants reported additional roles that they perceived they fulfilled: (a) counsellor, (b) navigator, and (c) trainer and re-trainer. These roles involved helping individuals with DSI, and their family, with depression, acceptance, repeat consultations, and way-finding through the health system. From the professionals’ perspective, these additional roles increase workload and place them in situations they were not trained for. They suggest education for all professionals and for family members working with people with DSI; moreover, they suggest a multidisciplinary team rehabilitation approach.
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Matsunaga T. Clinical genetics, practice, and research of deafblindness: From uncollected experiences to the national registry in Japan. Auris Nasus Larynx 2020; 48:185-193. [PMID: 32859446 DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2020.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Deafblindness is a condition of combined vision and hearing loss that is extremely rare in children and young adults, as well as being a highly heterogeneous condition, with over 70 specific etiologies. Due to these features, sporadic clinical experiences have not been collated, which has hampered medical progress. Genetics plays a major role in the pathogenesis of deafblindness in children and young adults, with more than 50 hereditary syndromes and disorders associated with the condition, including CHARGE, Usher, Down, Stickler, and Dandy-Walker syndromes, which are the most common. Clinical diagnosis of deafblindness is often difficult, and a significant proportion of patients are undiagnosed. No curative therapy is currently available for the majority of patients with hereditary deafblindness; however, experimental studies using animal models have shown promising results by targeting specific genes that cause vision or hearing loss. In Japan, the Rare Disease Data Registry of Japan (RADDAR-J) has been established as a national registry of rare and intractable diseases. Diseases of deafblindness have been elected as a disease category in RADDAR-J. Currently, clinical and genomic data are being collected and analyzed using this system, with the aim of generating an overview of deafblindness to improve medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuo Matsunaga
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro, Tokyo 152-8902, Japan; Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Japan; Medical Genetics Center, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Japan.
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Ozioko O, Navaraj W, Hersh M, Dahiya R. Tacsac: A Wearable Haptic Device with Capacitive Touch-Sensing Capability for Tactile Display. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20174780. [PMID: 32847139 PMCID: PMC7506622 DOI: 10.3390/s20174780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a dual-function wearable device (Tacsac) with capacitive tactile sensing and integrated tactile feedback capability to enable communication among deafblind people. Tacsac has a skin contactor which enhances localized vibrotactile stimulation of the skin as a means of feedback to the user. It comprises two main modules—the touch-sensing module and the vibrotactile module; both stacked and integrated as a single device. The vibrotactile module is an electromagnetic actuator that employs a flexible coil and a permanent magnet assembled in soft poly (dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), while the touch-sensing module is a planar capacitive metal-insulator-metal (MIM) structure. The flexible coil was fabricated on a 50 µm polyimide (PI) sheet using Lithographie Galvanoformung Abformung (LIGA) micromoulding technique. The Tacsac device has been tested for independent sensing and actuation as well as dual sensing-actuation mode. The measured vibration profiles of the actuator showed a synchronous response to external stimulus for a wide range of frequencies (10 Hz to 200 Hz) within the perceivable tactile frequency thresholds of the human hand. The resonance vibration frequency of the actuator is in the range of 60–70 Hz with an observed maximum off-plane displacement of 0.377 mm at coil current of 180 mA. The capacitive touch-sensitive layer was able to respond to touch with minimal noise both when actuator vibration is ON and OFF. A mobile application was also developed to demonstrate the application of Tacsac for communication between deafblind person wearing the device and a mobile phone user who is not deafblind. This advances existing tactile displays by providing efficient two-way communication through the use of a single device for both localized haptic feedback and touch-sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Ozioko
- Bendable Electronics and Sensing Technologies (BEST) Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK;
| | - William Navaraj
- Department of Engineering, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK;
| | - Marion Hersh
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8LP, UK;
| | - Ravinder Dahiya
- Bendable Electronics and Sensing Technologies (BEST) Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK;
- Correspondence:
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Manga T, Masuku KP. Challenges of teaching the deaf-blind learner in an education setting in Johannesburg: Experiences of educators and assistant educators. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2020; 67:e1-e7. [PMID: 32633989 PMCID: PMC7343947 DOI: 10.4102/sajcd.v67i1.649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that educators of deaf-blind students in the South African context have specific challenges in the educational setting because of their lack of adequate knowledge on deaf-blindness and a lack of sufficient training on communication, teaching and learning strategies. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to describe the challenges experienced by educators and assistant educators of children with deaf-blindness. METHOD Ten educators and assistant educators were selected purposively to participate in the study (Male = 3; Female = 7; age range 31-49 years). Participants were recruited from a school for the deaf-blind in Johannesburg. Participants completed semi-structured interviews on the challenges that they experienced when educating learners who are deaf-blind. RESULTS Findings from the data after inductive thematic analysis suggested the following: (1) under-preparedness of educators and assistant educators, (2) communication challenges, (3) challenges related to the diversity of deaf-blind learners and (4) lack of support structures for educators and assistant educators. CONCLUSION There is a need for ongoing educator training on communication strategies, cultural diversity and inclusive strategies. A collaborative model of delivering training and inclusive education that will encompass educators and therapists as a means of supporting both the educator and the learner who is deaf and blind is needed. Such a collaboration may result in positive outcomes for both the educator and the deaf-blind learner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejal Manga
- Speech Pathology, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; and Speech Pathology and Audiology Department, Tembisa Hospital, Johannesburg.
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Heine C, Gong CH, Feldman S, Browning C. Older Women in Australia: Facing the Challenges of Dual Sensory Loss. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 17:E263. [PMID: 31905935 PMCID: PMC6981467 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17010263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
With the increase in longevity, the number of women living into old age is rising and higher than that of men. Data was derived from the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing Program, which included 533 women and 467 men aged 65 years and older, in Australia, over 10 years. Logistic regression modeling was used to investigate the prevalence of dual sensory loss and the unmet needs for vision and hearing devices in older women (compared to men) over time, as well as its impacts on self-reported general health, depression, perceived social activities, community service use and ageing in place. Results suggested that the prevalence of dual sensory loss increased for women from the age of 75 years and over. Dual sensory loss was higher for older women and men who were living alone, with government benefits as their main income source or were divorced, separated or widowed. Dual sensory loss had significant impacts on poor general health, perceived inadequate social activities and community service use for women and men and on depression for women only. Early identification of dual sensory loss is essential to minimize its effects, ensuring continued well-being for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chyrisse Heine
- School of Allied Health, Human Services & Sport, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Cathy Honge Gong
- Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, Research School of Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
- Australian Research Centre (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Population Ageing Research, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Susan Feldman
- Independent Researcher, 41 Tyrone Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141, Australia;
| | - Colette Browning
- Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, Research School of Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
- School of Nursing and Healthcare Professions, Federation University, Mt Helen Campus, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia;
- International Institute for Primary Health Care Research, Shenzhen 518000, China
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Risk factors associated with congenital defects that alter hearing or vision in children born in the city of Bogotá between 2002 and 2016. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2019; 126:109594. [PMID: 31344554 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2019.109594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Congenital defects affecting the auditory and visual capacity of newborns represent a public health problem as they result in substantial disability, directly impacting the quality of life of newborns and their families. OBJECTIVE To evaluate risk factors associated with congenital defects that alter hearing or vision in newborns in the city of Bogotá between 2002 and 2016. METHOD Data from the Bogotá Birth Defects Surveillance and Follow-up Program was used, which consolidated data regarding 167 ECLAMC study (Estudio Colaborativo Latino Americano de Malformaciones Congénitas, in spanish) variables in a case-control design to identify risk factors for birth defects after parents provided signed informed consent. Cases were defined as any newborn (alive or stillborn) with a weight greater than 500 g with any visual or hearing abnormality. Controls were defined as newborn in the same hospital and month with no birth defects. Groups were formed according to the case presentation as follows: isolated eye anomaly, isolated ear anomaly, polymalformative, syndromic, and teratogenic. RESULTS In total, 402,657 births were reviewed, of which 968 cases had some congenital defects that alter hearing or vision. An association was found between the presence of defects and prematurity, as well as between syndromic cases and increasing maternal age. When comparing cases and controls with the risk of having a birth defect, multiparity had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.47 (95% CI: 1.27-1.71), acute respiratory infection had an OR of 2.41 (95% CI: 1.04-5.58), low maternal education level had an OR of 1.34 (95% CI:1.10-1.62), low paternal education had an OR of 1.42, (95% CI:1.17-1.73), manual labor in the maternal occupation had an OR of 1.31 (95% CI:1.03-1.67), and a history of congenital anomalies in the family had an OR of 1.55 (95% CI:1.19-2.00). CONCLUSION This research allowed the identification of epidemiological data and significant risk factors for congenital defects that alter hearing or vision in the population of Bogotá.
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Gavouyère B, Houtekier C, Wittich W. A Community of Practice for Deafblindness to Exchange Knowledge and Rehabilitation Practices. JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT & BLINDNESS 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0145482x19865392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Gavouyère
- CRIR/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille, Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada
| | - Catherine Houtekier
- CRIR/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille, Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Wolthuis K, Bol GW, Minnaert A, Janssen MJ. Communication development from an intersubjective perspective: Exploring the use of a layered communication model to describe communication development in students with congenital deafblindness. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2019; 80:35-51. [PMID: 31075557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This exploratory study conducts a quantitative investigation on the communication development of students with congenital deafblindness (CDB). First, a layered communication model (LCM) is introduced, describing communicative behaviors based on three layers of intersubjective development for typically developing children (Bråten & Trevarthen, 2007). Subsequently, an analysis is made of how applicable the LCM is for children with CDB. Video recordings of four dyads of students with CDB with varying developmental ages and their teachers are coded using ten-second partial interval coding. The presence of LCM behaviors, the student and teacher contributions to communication, and the development over a half-year period are described and compared between dyads. The results reflected the developmental differences between dyads. At the primary layer, all behaviors occurred a comparable number of times between dyads, which confirms that this is a basic communication layer. Quantitative differences between dyads were encountered between and within the secondary and tertiary layers. Teacher contribution was higher for students with lower developmental ages compared to students with higher developmental ages. Also, teacher contribution was higher for the secondary and tertiary layer behaviors of the LCM compared to the primary layer behaviors. No increase was found in the behaviors over the half-year period. Results suggest that the LCM can be used to gain insight into the communication level of a dyad, hereby paving the way for intervention studies to improve communication development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Wolthuis
- Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Department of Special Needs Education and Youth Care, Grote Rozenstraat 38, 9712 TJ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Gerard W Bol
- Faculty of Arts, University of Groningen, Neurolinguistics and Language Development, Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat 26, 9712 EK, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Alexander Minnaert
- Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Department of Special Needs Education and Youth Care, Grote Rozenstraat 38, 9712 TJ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Marleen J Janssen
- Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Department of Special Needs Education and Youth Care, Grote Rozenstraat 38, 9712 TJ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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Crowe K, Hovaldt HB, Dammeyer J. Communication participation in older adults with dual sensory loss. SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/2050571x.2019.1623457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Crowe
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Teacher Education, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia
| | | | - Jesper Dammeyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Using the ICF to Identify Contextual Factors That Influence Participation of Persons With Deafblindness. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 100:2324-2333. [PMID: 30986411 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and describe the contextual factors that influence the participation of people with deafblindness in India. DESIGN Qualitative study, using directed content analysis approach and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a framework to analyze the data. SETTING Community and social participation settings. PARTICIPANTS Community-dwelling individuals with deafblindness (N=16). Age ranges from 18-45 years. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Personal and environmental factors that influence the participation of individuals with deafblindness using the ICF framework. RESULTS Results indicate that the age of onset and nature of impairment (deafblindness) and willingness to explain the condition (functional consequences of deafblindness) emerged as important personal factors. Access to resources such as assistive technology, social support, and deafblind-specific services were found to be enablers of participation. Lack of services, systems, and policies specific to deafblindness along with negative societal attitude toward disability were highly perceived environmental barriers that influence participation of people with deafblindness in India. CONCLUSIONS Professionals must acknowledge aspects of the environment in conducting assessments and delivering interventions and understand the dynamic interactions between environment of the individual and his/her concurrent vision and hearing impairments. Approaches to enable participation require rehabilitation professionals to work with those with deafblindness to advocate for removal of environmental barriers and ensure provision of appropriate resources from the government to facilitate their participation. Social policy and government must ensure emphasis on awareness about deafblindness, access to deafblind-specific services, positive societal attitude, and opportunities for full participation for people with deafblindness in society.
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Jaiswal A, Aldersey HM, Wittich W, Mirza M, Finlayson M. Meaning and experiences of participation: a phenomenological study with persons with deafblindness in India. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 42:2580-2592. [PMID: 30686125 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1564943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Deafblindness, also known as dual sensory loss, creates a distinct condition more disabling than either deafness or blindness alone. The participation experiences of persons with deafblindness have not been understood well. This phenomenological study aims to understand the meanings of participation for persons with deafblindness and identify the domains of life that are important to them.Methods: We used the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health as a guiding framework. Sixteen adults with deafblindness were interviewed between March and May 2017 in India using a qualitative interview guide.Results: Findings suggest participation as a dynamic, individualized construct that is not just an end outcome. Rather, it is a means to achieve other goals important to the participants such as gaining respect, autonomy, independence, support and relationships, to fulfill aspirations and responsibilities, and to feel included and recognized in society. Life domains that they deemed important for participation were communication and access to information, mobility, relationships, education and productivity, and recreation and leisure.Conclusions: In order to enhance societal participation of people with deafblindness, a significant change in the focus of rehabilitation services is required which involves professionals viewing participation as both a means and an end outcome while designing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Jaiswal
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mansha Mirza
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Marcia Finlayson
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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Skilton A, Boswell E, Prince K, Francome-Wood P, Moosajee M. Overcoming barriers to the involvement of deafblind people in conversations about research: recommendations from individuals with Usher syndrome. RESEARCH INVOLVEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT 2018; 4:40. [PMID: 30386632 PMCID: PMC6202812 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-018-0124-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PLAIN ENGLISH SUMMARY Usher syndrome is the most common cause of deafblindness worldwide and is estimated to affect between 3 and 6 people in every 100,000. Children are born with hearing loss and develop sight loss in their early years of life. A barrier to the involvement and participation of deafblind people in research is access to information in appropriate formats. The degree of sight and hearing impairment experienced by individuals is variable, so there is not a one size fits all solution. We held a research discussion group, that included five people with Usher syndrome, to consider people's accessibility needs for an upcoming research project involving this condition.We have identified a number of considerations for including deafblind people in conversations about research: i) using appropriately sized meeting rooms which offer control over lighting, layout and sound; ii) where appropriate, ensuring written/printed materials are high contrast (e.g. black text with a yellow background) and in large (18 point and above), sans-serif fonts (e.g. Arial); iii) identifying the relevant communication support for the individual whether that be sign language interpretation, lip reading, hearing loop, speech to text reporting or a combination; iv) ensuring that there is access to emotional support for both people who are deafblind and their families before, during and after the research.The outcome of this work is a checklist of considerations when planning to hold a research conversation with someone who is deafblind and hinges on earlier interactions to identify the appropriate support needs for the individual. ABSTRACT Background Usher syndrome is the most common cause of deafblindness worldwide. Children are born with hearing loss and develop sight loss in their early years of life. It is estimated to affect between 3 and 6 people in every 100,000. A barrier to the involvement and participation of deafblind people in research is access to information in appropriate formats. Individuals have varying degrees of sight and hearing impairment meaning there is not a singular solution to supporting all people's communication needs. There is evidence that severe sight and hearing impairments are used as exclusion criteria in some research studies. This exclusion may extend into involvement activities. Methods Eight people, including five people with Usher syndrome, attended a research discussion group. Through this activity, we identified what to consider when looking to improve the experience of taking part in a discussion about research for deafblind individuals. Results Among contributors two people made use of standard British Sign Language interpretation and one communicated using hands-on signing. Contributors highlighted the limitations associated with signing and lip reading such as exhaustion and clear lines of sight as well as the need for additional formats such as speech to text reporting, and high contrast (e.g. black text with a yellow background) printouts with large (18 point and above), sans-serif fonts (e.g. Arial). A large proportion of discussions were on the importance of wrap around emotional support for people who are deafblind and their family throughout the research pathway. This includes counselling, peer support and sensitive and mindful facilitators of involvement activities. Conclusions The range and specific nature of the communication methods and support offerings that deafblind people depend on are broad and require researchers and involvement practitioners to reach out to deafblind contributors earlier on, in order to appropriately tailor approaches and put the most suitable support in place. Informed by this discussion group, we have developed a checklist of key considerations to support the inclusion of deafblind individuals in research conversations, supplemented with input from the sensory disability charity Sense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Skilton
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD UK
| | | | - Kevin Prince
- Research Community Contributor, NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD UK
| | - Priya Francome-Wood
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH UK
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Jaiswal A, Aldersey H, Wittich W, Mirza M, Finlayson M. Participation experiences of people with deafblindness or dual sensory loss: A scoping review of global deafblind literature. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203772. [PMID: 30212504 PMCID: PMC6136783 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Deafblindness, also known as dual sensory loss, is a varying combination of visual and hearing impairment in the same individual. Interest in this topic has increased recently due to evidence suggesting an increase in prevalence of this condition among older adults. Persons with deafblindness frequently experience participation barriers and social isolation. Developing an understanding of their experiences can inform the design of programs and policies to enhance participation of people with deafblindness in society. Objective To identify and summarize available research literature on participation experiences of people with deafblindness or dual sensory loss. Methods A comprehensive literature search of eight databases (CINAHL/EBSCO, Embase, ERIC, Global Health, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PsycINFO, PubMed) was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) during January 2017 and last updated in June 2017. In addition, non-peer reviewed (grey) literature was also retrieved in the form of online published reports of research projects by 16 deafblind-specific organizations across the globe. To be included, sources had to be published after 1990, had persons with deafblindness as the focal population, and focused on their participation experiences. Results A total 1172 sources were identified of which 54 studies were included. The findings reveal that persons with deafblindness, regardless of origin of their impairment, experience difficulty in communication, mobility, daily living functioning, and social interactions. While these experiences may vary between individuals with congenital versus acquired conditions, they generally feel socially isolated, insecure and uncertain about their future. Conclusion Participation experiences of persons with deafblindness are shaped by dynamic interactions between personal factors (such as onset and type of impairments) and environmental influences (such as attitude, technology, and supports). A better understanding of participation experiences may help professionals in placing emphasis on affected participation domains to design services to enhance participation of people with deafblindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Jaiswal
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Heather Aldersey
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mansha Mirza
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Marcia Finlayson
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Perfect E, Jaiswal A, Davies TC. Systematic review: Investigating the effectiveness of assistive technology to enable internet access for individuals with deafblindness. Assist Technol 2018; 31:276-285. [DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2018.1445136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Perfect
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - T. Claire Davies
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
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Teglbjærg JH, Hovaldt HB, Lehane C, Dammeyer J. Aetiologies of acquired deafblindness in a national sample. BRITISH JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0264619618758352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study provides an overview of aetiologies and co-morbidities of acquired deafblindness in a Danish national sample of 514 individuals above 50 years of age identified with acquired deafblindness. Information was obtained from a survey and a register. The most frequent aetiology of vision loss was age-related macular degeneration (55.4%). The most frequent aetiology of hearing loss was presbycusis (53.7%). The most frequent aetiology of acquired deafblindness was the combination of age-related macular degeneration and presbycusis (41.5%). However, among the younger participants (50–59 years of age), Usher syndrome was the most common aetiology (62.5%). The aetiologies of acquired deafblindness are many and constituted by several different combinations of hearing and vision loss aetiologies. The most frequent aetiologies are age related.
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Lehane CM, Elsass P, Hovaldt HB, Dammeyer J. A relationship-focused investigation of spousal psychological adjustment to dual-sensory loss. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:397-404. [PMID: 27976917 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2016.1268091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The relationship intimacy model of psychosocial adjustment to illness indicates that a patient's willingness to communicate about their illness, as perceived by the spouse, is a strong predictor of spouse relational and psychological well-being. Inspired by the relationship intimacy model, the current study examined the psychological adjustment of spouses of individuals with dual-sensory loss (DSL), a disability where interpersonal communication is of particular concern. METHOD Surveys were sent to all known individuals and their partners who were 50 years of age or older and were enrolled in services for acquired DSL in Denmark. A total of 65 spouses met the inclusion criteria of which 45 (69%) returned a partner survey. RESULTS Results showed a significant association between couples' sensory loss-related communication, relationship satisfaction, perceived support and psychological well-being. Perceived support significantly mediated the association between couples' sensory loss communication and spouse psychological well-being. CONCLUSION The current study's findings provide support for a relationship-focused perspective of spousal psychological adjustment in the context of DSL. Further, couples' sensory loss-related communication is presented as a potential intervention target to enhance spouse perceived support and psychological well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Lehane
- a Department of Psychology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Peter Elsass
- a Department of Psychology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Hanna B Hovaldt
- a Department of Psychology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jesper Dammeyer
- a Department of Psychology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
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Bruhn P, Dammeyer J. Assessment of Dementia in Individuals with Dual Sensory Loss: Application of a Tactile Test Battery. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2018. [PMID: 29515619 PMCID: PMC5836148 DOI: 10.1159/000486092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Individuals with dual sensory loss (DSL) are more likely to experience cognitive decline with age than individuals without sensory loss. Other studies have pointed to the challenges in assessing cognitive abilities in individuals with DSL, as most existing instruments rely on use of vision and hearing. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a Tactile Test Battery (TTB) for cognitive assessment in individuals with DSL. Method Twenty elderly individuals with DSL, 20 with diagnosed dementia, and 20 without dementia or DSL (controls) completed the following tactile tests developed for the present study: Spatial learning, Spatial recall, Tactile form board, Clock reading, and Naming. The participants with dementia and controls also completed the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Results Overall, participants with dementia performed significantly worse on the tactile tests than participants with DSL and control participants. No significant differences on the tactile tests were found between participants with DSL and controls. The TTB and MMSE scores correlated significantly. Conclusion The findings from this study of applying tactile tests for cognitive examination in individuals with DSL are promising. They indicate that symptoms of dementia can be differentiated from symptoms related to DSL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bruhn
- aDepartment of Neurology, Dementia and Memory Clinic, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Dammeyer
- bDepartment of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Lehane CM, Dammeyer J, Wittich W. Intra- and interpersonal effects of coping on the psychological well-being of adults with sensory loss and their spouses. Disabil Rehabil 2017; 41:796-807. [DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2017.1410583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesper Dammeyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
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Lehane CM, Hofsöe SM, Wittich W, Dammeyer J. Mental Health and Spouse Support Among Older Couples Living With Sensory Loss. J Aging Health 2017; 30:1205-1223. [DOI: 10.1177/0898264317713135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The current study examined the mental health of couples living with and without sensory loss; compared the mental health of couples living with hearing, vision, or dual-sensory loss; and investigated the association between spouse support and the mental health of couples living with sensory loss. Method: The study included 513 couples with sensory loss and 1,079 couples without sensory loss. Actor–Partner Interdependence Models were used to examine associations between spouse support and mental health. Results: Controlling for potential covariates, individuals with sensory loss and their spouses were at a greater risk of mental health problems. Sensory loss modality (hearing and/or vision) did not explain any differences. Both actor and partner effects of spouse support on anxiety and depression were found. Discussion: The findings highlight the need to support the mental health of couples living with sensory loss and indicate the importance of considering the intimate relationship in future studies.
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Ogrinc M, Farkhatdinov I, Walker R, Burdet E. Horseback riding therapy for a deafblind individual enabled by a haptic interface. Assist Technol 2017; 30:143-150. [PMID: 28346067 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2017.1288178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a haptic interface to help deafblind people to practice horseback riding as a recreational and therapeutic activity. Horseback riding is a form of therapy which can improve self-esteem and sensation of independence. It has been shown to benefit people with various medical conditions-including autism. However, in the case of deafblind riders, an interpreter must stand by at all times to communicate with the rider by touch. We developed a simple interface that enables deafblind people to enjoy horseback riding while the instructor is remotely providing cues, which improves their independence. Experiments demonstrated that an autistic deafblind individual exhibits similar responses to navigational cues as an unimpaired rider. Motivation is an important factor in therapy, and is frequently determinant of its outcome; therefore, the user attitude toward the therapy methods is key. The answers to questionnaires filled by the rider, family, and the instructor show that our technique gives the rider a greater sense of independence and more joy compared to standard riding where the instructor is walking along with the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matjaž Ogrinc
- b Shadow Robot Company LTD , London , United Kingdom
| | - Ildar Farkhatdinov
- a Department of Bioengineering , Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine , London , United Kingdom.,c School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science , Queen Mary University of London , London , United Kingdom
| | - Rich Walker
- b Shadow Robot Company LTD , London , United Kingdom
| | - Etienne Burdet
- a Department of Bioengineering , Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine , London , United Kingdom
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Roets-Merken L, Zuidema S, Vernooij-Dassen M, Dees M, Hermsen P, Kempen G, Graff M. Problems identified by dual sensory impaired older adults in long-term care when using a self-management program: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173601. [PMID: 28323846 PMCID: PMC5360251 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To gain insights into the problems of dual sensory impaired older adults in long-term care. Insights into these problems are essential for developing adequate policies which address the needs of the increasing population of dual sensory impaired older adults in long-term care. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in parallel with a cluster randomized controlled trial. Dual sensory impaired older adults in the intervention group (n = 47, age range 82-98) were invited by a familiar nurse to identify the problems they wanted to address. Data were taken from the semi-structured intervention diaries in which nurses noted the older adults' verbal responses during a five-month intervention period in 17 long-term care homes across the Netherlands. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis based on the Grounded Theory. FINDINGS The 47 dual sensory impaired older adults identified a total of 122 problems. Qualitative content analysis showed that the older adults encountered participation problems and problems controlling what happens in their personal environment. Three categories of participation problems emerged: (1) existential concerns of not belonging or not being able to connect with other people, (2) lack of access to communication, information and mobility, and (3) the desire to be actively involved in care delivery. Two categories of control-in-personal-space problems emerged: (1) lack of control of their own physical belongings, and (2) lack of control regarding the behavior of nurses providing daily care in their personal environment. CONCLUSIONS The invasive problems identified indicate that dual sensory impaired older adults experience great existential pressures on their lives. Long-term care providers need to develop and implement policies that identify and address these problems, and be aware of adverse consequences of usual care, in order to improve dual sensory impaired residents' autonomy and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieve Roets-Merken
- Donders Institute for Cognition, Brain and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Kalorama Foundation, Beek-Ubbergen, The Netherlands
| | - Sytse Zuidema
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Myrra Vernooij-Dassen
- Donders Institute for Cognition, Brain and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Dees
- IQ Healthcare, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gertrudis Kempen
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maud Graff
- Donders Institute for Cognition, Brain and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,IQ Healthcare, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Aghaji AE, Bowman R, Ofoegbu VC, Smith A. Dual sensory impairment in special schools in South-Eastern Nigeria. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:174-177. [PMID: 28100557 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2016-311285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
In a cross-sectional study to determine the magnitude of dual sensory impairment (DSI-combined hearing and vision loss) in children in single-disability special education schools, children in schools for the blind and schools for the deaf in four states in South-East Nigeria were examined by an ophthalmologist and otorhinolaryngologist to determine the level of their disability and to identify other disabilities if any. Participants were all students with childhood blindness or childhood deafness. The magnitude and causes of DSI and the burden of undetected DSI were the main outcome measures. A total of 273 students were examined. About 7% of these students had DSI out of which over 60% (12/19) was previously undetected. There was more DSI in the blind schools than in the deaf schools (p=0.003). There is a large burden of undetected DSI in children in special schools in Nigeria. There is a need to create awareness of this problem and advocate appropriate screening, rehabilitative and educational strategies for children who have it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada E Aghaji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Richard Bowman
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Vincent C Ofoegbu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Andrew Smith
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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McGilton KS, Höbler F, Campos J, Dupuis K, Labreche T, Guthrie DM, Jarry J, Singh G, Wittich W. Hearing and vision screening tools for long-term care residents with dementia: protocol for a scoping review. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e011945. [PMID: 27466242 PMCID: PMC4964241 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-011945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hearing and vision loss among long-term care (LTC) residents with dementia frequently goes unnoticed and untreated. Despite negative consequences for these residents, there is little information available about their sensory abilities and care assessments and practices seldom take these abilities or accessibility needs into account. Without adequate knowledge regarding such sensory loss, it is difficult for LTC staff to determine the level of an individual's residual basic competence for communication and independent functioning. We will conduct a scoping review to identify the screening measures used in research and clinical contexts that test hearing and vision in adults aged over 65 years with dementia, aiming to: (1) provide an overview of hearing and vision screening in older adults with dementia; and (2) evaluate the sensibility of the screening tools. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This scoping review will be conducted using the framework by Arksey and O'Malley and furthered by methodological enhancements from cited researchers. We will conduct electronic database searches in CENTRAL, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO. We will also carry out a 'grey literature' search for studies or materials not formally published, both online and through interview discussions with healthcare professionals and research clinicians working in the field. Our aim is to find new and existing hearing and vision screening measures used in research and by clinical professionals of optometry and audiology. Abstracts will be independently reviewed twice for acceptance by a multidisciplinary team of researchers and research clinicians. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This review will inform health professionals working with this growing population. With the review findings, we aim to develop a toolkit and an algorithmic process to select the most appropriate hearing and vision screening assessments for LTC residents with dementia that will facilitate accurate testing and can inform care planning, thereby improving residents' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S McGilton
- Department of Research, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fiona Höbler
- Department of Research, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Campos
- Department of Research, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kate Dupuis
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Audiology, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tammy Labreche
- Centre for Sight Enhancement, School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn M Guthrie
- Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Wilfrid Laurier University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Jarry
- School of Optometry, University of Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Department of Research, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Phonak AG, Stäfa, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, University of Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- CRIR/Centre de réadaptation MAB-Mackay du CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal. Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- CRIR/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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