Combined effect of self-perceived voice disorders and hearing loss on social acts in older adults: a 1-year longitudinal study

[Purpose] Self-perceived voice disorders (VD) and hearing loss (HL) are common communication barriers in older adults, yet their combined impact on social participation remains underexplored. This study examined the additive effects of self-perceived VD and HL on frequency of going out (FGO) and social interactions in community-dwelling older Japanese adults. [Participants and Methods] In this longitudinal study, 134 adults aged ≥65 years were surveyed at baseline and one year later. Self-perceived VD and HL were assessed using Voice Handicap Index-10 (cutoff ≥5) and Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly-Screening Version (cutoff ≥8). FGO was measured as days per week participants went outside, and social interaction was assessed using the Lubben Social Network Scale-6. [Results] Repeated-measures analyses showed that self-perceived VD was associated with decreased FGO. Participants with both self-perceived VD and HL showed an additional decrease of about 1 day per week after one year. Participants with either impairment alone or with neither showed no significant change. No significant associations were observed between VD or HL and LSNS-6 family or friend subscale scores. [Conclusion] Co-occurring self-perceived VD and HL may exacerbate social isolation by limiting expressive and receptive communication. Addressing even one of these conditions could help maintain mobility and social interaction.