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Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Model to Gain Insight into the Impact of Cochlear Implants on Prelingually Deafened Recipients

  • Author(s) / Creator(s)
  • A number of factors influence the quality of life of deaf individuals following cochlear implantation. In this study, we adapted the ICF model to create a survey to specifically fit Cochlear Implant (CI) users. This enabled us to make a novel comparison and correlation among multiple factors and categories between two groups: a high and low score group in response to survey questions. The objective of this study was to determine the broader effects that cochlear implantation has on adults with prelingual deafness. Using the WHO-­‐ICF model, in addition to previous quality of life studies as a framework, a 65-­‐item survey (modified ICF Checklist) was created and sent out to 71 participants. From there, outcome measures were categorized as follows: 1) Activities, Participation and Personal Factors, 2) Hearing Activities, and 3) Environmental Factors. The results of this study clearly show that the quality of life of adults with prelingual deafness improved after cochlear implantation. More specifically, this study showed overall improvements in one-­‐on-­‐one conversations, family relationships, enjoyment in music, safety, self-­‐esteem/confidence, overall happiness, quality of life, and level of independence. Second, this study highlighted the impact of support from family, health professionals and friends on the overall benefits received from CIs. Finally, this study showed that based on comparing two groups with high and low survey scores there is an evident trend seen between the outcome categories wherein an improvement in one outcome category showed improvements in the other two outcome categories.

  • Date created
    2014-06-17
  • Subjects / Keywords
  • Type of Item
    Report
  • DOI
    https://doi.org/10.7939/R39K46752
  • License
    Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 International