Dual sensory impairment and health equity: evidence and gaps from the Australian Eye and Ear Health Survey

Dual sensory impairment (DSI) is more disabling than either impairment alone, because the senses can no longer compensate for one another. This has a significant impact on communication, mobility and independence. The Western Pacific region is facing a critical issue regarding sensory health. Several of its countries are ageing faster than almost anywhere else in the world. Yet populations bearing the greatest burden of sensory disease, including indigenous peoples and those with limited access to affordable healthcare, have lacked the necessary epidemiological data.