Research Study: Developing integrated care models for older adults with combined vision and hearing loss, and their family carers.
We are conducting a research study about the impact of combined vision and hearing loss (also known as dual sensory impairment [DSI]) on older adults and the close family members who provide care. We know from previous studies we have conducted that older adults with DSI can or may experience a range of impacts including social isolation, loneliness and depression, and that DSI impacts day to day activities and going out to socialise. We also know that family members (such as a spouse, partner, adult child) are key to supporting people with DSI in their day-to-day activities.
We are seeking adults over the age of 65 years with both hearing and vision loss, and their family carers, to better understand the impacts of DSI on you and your family member. We need your help in designing strategies that work to support you.
To be part of this study you will be:
- over 65 years and have a combination of hearing and vision loss
- be the carer or support person for a family member with combined vision and hearing loss aged over 65 years, and who currently lives with their family member.
Taking part in this study will involve attending four workshops to develop knowledge and understanding of DSI, as well as developing communication skills that will work for you and your family member. This study is funded by the Australian Association of Gerontology (AAG), and you will be reimbursed for your time. Each workshop will last around 2 hours with regular breaks.
We will also interview you and your family member at the beginning of the study, at the end and also three months after the study finishes. We can do this at your home or a place convenient to you. This interview will ask some questions and complete some surveys and won’t take more than 45 minutes of your time.
Please contact Dr Moira Dunsmore, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, on moira.dunsmore@sydney.edu.au or 02 9351 0784 if you would like to participate in this study or have some questions you would like to ask about the study.