Effects of longstanding degraded auditory signal on visuospatial, visuomotor, and visual attention skills in adults with hearing loss.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the consequences of long-term auditory deprivation on visuospatial functions, visuomotor functions, and visual attention skills in adults with early-onset hearing loss.

METHODS

Fifteen adults with bilateral, early-onset (before age 3), severe-to-profound hearing loss who used spoken language participated in this study. Visuospatial (figure ground, form constancy, visual perception) and visuomotor functions (visuomotor integration, visual search) were examined using norm-referenced tests. Visual attention scales were examined using a computerized program, IVA plus continuous performance test.

RESULTS

As a group, participants performed in the average range on visuospatial and visuomotor functions when compared to normative data presented in the test instruments. However, participants demonstrated below average performance on sustained visual attention. Duration of cochlear implant use positively correlated with one of the visual attention scales, namely visual speed.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the current study suggest that adults with early-onset hearing loss may demonstrate difficulties in sustaining attention to visual information. Data also suggest that increased experience with cochlear implant may ameliorate deficits associated with visual attention. Future studies should explore challenges experienced by adults with early-onset hearing loss in their daily activities that may result from this deficit and intervention programs that may enhance visual attention skills.