Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The association between hearing loss and socialization has been characterized in limited detail and primarily among non-Hispanic Caucasians. We aimed to study this relationship using more detailed socialization measures than previously used and focusing on Hispanics. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional epidemiologic study (Hispanic Community Health Study). SETTING: Multicentered, four U.S. communities. PARTICIPANTS: U.S. Hispanics ages 18 to 76 years. MAIN MEASURES: Multivariable linear regression controlling for confounders (age, sex, education) was conducted to analyze the association between hearing loss (four-frequency pure tone average) and socialization. Socialization was assessed with three independent surveys: a modified Cohen Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL), the Cohen Social Network Index (SNI), and a modified Moos Family Environment Scale. RESULTS: Average age was 46.7 years (standard deviation [SD], 13.6 yr; range, 18-75 yr). Average ISEL composite score was 25.9 (SD, 6.66; n = 4,330). Controlling for confounders, for every 10 dB worsening in hearing, the ISEL score decreased by 0.31 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08-0.52; p < 0.01). Average SNI network diversity score was 6.89 (SD, 1.81; n = 3,117) and average SNI network size was 15.4 individuals (SD, 8.11). Controlling for confounders, for every 10 dB worsening in hearing, the SNI network diversity decreased by 0.22 (95% CI, 0.15-0.29; p < 0.001), and SNI size decreased by 0.25 (95% CI, 0.07-0.62; p < 0.05). Average family cohesion score on the Moos Family Environment Scale was 12.9 (SD, 2.77; n = 4,234). Controlling for age, sex, and education, for every 10 dB worsening in hearing, family cohesion decreased by 0.14 (95% CI, 0.04-0.23; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Hearing loss is associated with less social support, smaller/less diverse social networks, and less family cohesion in U.S. Hispanics.