The Medical Sociological Evaluation of Quality of Life of Patients With Sensorineural Deafness

Abstract

Health is the fundamental value of every individual, and its violations, especially those that are burdened by risk of disability, are the key factor of reducing quality of life of individual. The extent of prevalence of hearing impairment in population, accompanied by multiple problems in organization of social, professional and family life of patients, determines high social importance of the issue. The article presents results of medical and sociological study (focus group) of quality of life of patients with diagnosis "sensorineural hearing loss" (as exemplified by patients of Moscow multi-field hospital). The onset of disease, in addition to problems of physical well-being (pain, dizziness, disorientation, etc.) causes person sensorineural hearing loss reducing quality of life, and, above all, resulting in multiple communication problems at the level of everyday personal and social interaction. Despite the fact that the study participants believe that there is no negative attitude and stigma towards people with hearing loss among Russians, the respondents noted prevalence of general intolerant attitude towards disabled people. The widespread of sensorineural hearing loss among able-bodied population is accompanied with low level of public awareness of principles of prevention of hearing loss, the need for timely corresponding treatment, as well as peculiarities of interaction with people suffering hearing loss. The majority of respondents indicate high ability to work with adequate treatment and selection of hearing device and make adjustments to organization, and the support of family and working community.