Is Cochlear Implant Surgery Advisable For An Elderly Person?

Posted on Thu, 20 Apr 2017

Question: I am at the Stage 4: Moderate cognitive Decline" according to Dr. XXXXXXX Reisburg's Seven Stage frame work. Problem in this connection is that my hearing loss is classified as "the profoundly deaf" by the audiologist. I am not happy at all with the hearing aids So I am new thinking of having the cochlear implant surgery. I am almost 90 years old. Your professional opinion will be most appreciated.
Best regards,
Hee-jin XXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXX s husband

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Cochlear implant may be considered

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand the dismal situation that you are in. In case of profound hearing loss not responding well to hearing aids cochlear implants have prospect. Discuss with your ENT doctor about its feasibility in your case. There are various eligibility criteria to consider and your doctor would be able to match them for you.

Please note that the hearing achieved with cochlear implant is significantly different from the perception of hearing that you currently have. Moreover, it requires prolonged hearing training and language therapy to be able to make use of the same. Discuss about it with your doctor.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar