The Academy of Finland has released viable evidence showing that problems with hearing and vision has significantly reduced the active participation of older people in different activities and events. This claim is supported by data from studies that were carried out by the Gerontology Research Center. Impairments in hearing and vision have made it more difficult for older people to interact in a social setting, however, these opportunities to interact with other people are an important facet of an older adult's life.
Anne Viljanen, part of the research team for the Gerontology Center said that, "Sensory impairments are common among older adults. About one third of Europeans aged 50 and older were found to have impairment in hearing, vision, or both sensory functions. Sensory problems are markedly more common amongst older age groups." Another member, Tuija Mikkola, went on further saying, "We found that older adults who have problems participate in group activities and meet their friends less often than those with good hearing." The reason for the decline in interaction is because mingling in group activities can prove to be challenging for older people who are suffering from hearing and vision problems. They often experience difficulty in carrying out conversations with one, or several, people within a noisy environment. These subjects would rather stay at home because they think that their ability to live their lives normally is inferior.
Researchers recommend preventive and rehabilitative measures that are important in supporting older people with sensory impairments to help them get back into their circles and live socially active lives. To achieve this, there must be A close collaboration between the different healthcare specialists and rehabilitation personnel that are in direct constant contact with the patients. Encouraging them to interact more may possibly help them arrive at a compensating mechanism that will help them to communicate more effectively.
