Comparison of sensorineural hearing loss with video head impulse test findings in people 65 years and older

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate sensorineural hearing loss in patients 65 years and older with video head impulse test findings. METHOD: The patient were divided into two groups as 65-74 years and 75-85 years age in order to evaluate the relationship between vHIT gain values and age. 36 patients aged 65-74 years (18women, 18 men) and 24 patient aged 75-84 years (12 women, 12 men) were included in the study. According to same patient groups sensorineural hearing loss level. 1.Group (26 dB – 55dB mild to moderate hearing loss), 2.Group (55 dB – 90 dB modarate to severe hearing loss) two groups were formed and each patient underwent vHIT. RESULTS: In the 75-85 age group, the vHIT gain value was compared to the 65-74 age group; for both ear, it was statistically significantly lower (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant relationship between the degree of hearing loss in both ear and vHIT gain value (p>0.05). RESULTS: The results of the study implies that sensorineural hearing loss as well as vestibulocular reflex gains are impaired in older ages. However, this deterioration has not affected the degree of sensorineural hearing loss.