Evolution of Type D Personality Traits After Cochlear Implantation in Severely Hearing Impaired Adults 55 Years and Older: An Exploratory Prospective, Longitudinal, Controlled, Multicenter Study.

PURPOSE: To study the evolution of type D personality traits in older adults after cochlear implantation compared with a control group of severely hearing impaired older adults who did not receive a cochlear implant (CI). The influence of COVID-19 on this evolution was also explored. Type D personality combines a high degree of negative affectivity (NA) and social inhibition (SI). METHODS: In this prospective, longitudinal, controlled multicenter exploratory study, 76 older CI users and 21 severely hearing impaired controls without CI were included. The CI group and the control group did not differ significantly regarding age, formal education, residual hearing, Type D Scale-14 (DS14) total score, NA, and SI at baseline. Type D personality traits were assessed with the DS14 at baseline (T0) and 14 months later (T14). RESULTS: Type D personality traits differed significantly over time between the CI group and the control group (p < 0.001). In the CI group, the DS14 total score (mean delta T = -6.63; p < 0.001), NA (mean delta T = -3.26; p < 0.001), and SI (mean delta T = -3.37; p < 0.001) improved significantly over time (delta T = T14-T0), whereas no significant difference was found in the control group. Significantly fewer subjects were categorized as type D personalities in the CI group (delta T = -12; p = 0.023) at T14, whereas no significant change was found in the control group (delta T = 3; p = 0.250). COVID-19 did not influence the evolution of type D personality traits significantly in the CI group. CONCLUSION: Cochlear implantation has a positive effect on type D personality traits in older adults with a severe-to-profound hearing impairment.

Telehealth rehabilitation for adults with cochlear implants in response to the Covid-19 pandemic: platform selection and case studies.

BACKGROUND: Effective information giving and goal setting before cochlear implantation and individualised rehabilitation following implantation are both crucial for shaping patients' expectations and optimising outcomes. The Covid-19 pandemic led to temporary cessation of face to face clinic appointments. This created a need for telehealth rehabilitation for adults whose hearing loss presents unique communication challenges. AIMS: We describe the piloting and implementation of telehealth rehabilitation within an adult cochlear implant service. METHOD: Video conferencing and telehealth tools were assessed in terms of security, accessibility and functionality. Written support materials were developed. Telehealth sessions were piloted with lay volunteers. During service implementation, feedback was collected from patients and staff. OUTCOMES & RESULTS: A video call platform was identified that was supported by the host Trust and also met the rehabilitation service's needs. A telehealth service was successfully implemented, ensuring continuity of care during lockdown. We share the platform selection framework used, practical lessons learned and patient support materials. CONCLUSION: .Telehealth rehabilitation facilitated a well-received, effective service for adult cochlear implant patients. It is predicted that the benefits of telehealth rehabilitation will last beyond the lockdown restrictions posed by Covid-19.