Protocol for a Pre-Post Field Trial of a Home Hearing and Vision Care Program for Older Australians With Diverse Cognitive Abilities and Hearing and/or Vision Impairment.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hearing and vision impairments are prevalent health conditions among older adults, negatively affecting functional ability, mental and social well-being, quality of life and increasing the likelihood of transition to long-term care. Sensory impairments are also common comorbidities with dementia, compounding the impact of dementia. Early intervention to optimize sensory function may help older adults stay in their homes longer. The Australian government's 'Homecare Package' provides affordable care services to support older adults with complex needs at home; however, there is a lack of support for hearing and vision needs. This trial will investigate whether a sensory support intervention enhances the quality of life and other outcomes for older adults (aged 65 years or older) with diverse cognitive abilities and hearing and/or vision impairments, as well as their care partners.

METHODS

This manuscript presents a study protocol for a home-based sensory support intervention for older adults with hearing and/or vision impairment who receive home care services. A pre-post study will determine the impact and cost-effectiveness of a 12-week intervention. Key outcome measures include health-related quality of life, sensory and cognitive functional ability, relationships, mental well-being and health resource utilization. All outcomes will be assessed before the intervention (baseline) and 13- and 26-weeks post-intervention commencement.

CONCLUSION

This manuscript describes the protocol for a pre-post intervention trial. A parallel and complementary process evaluation will be detailed in a separate publication. If effective, the intervention may assist older adults to improve their quality of life and remain living in their own homes. Findings will generate evidence for hearing and vision support as part of home care services. Trial registration: ACTRN12624001167550 retrospectively registered.