Communication difficulties among individuals with hearing impairments during the COVID-19 pandemic and their associated factors: a cross-sectional study using a national survey in Japan.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread use of face masks have exacerbated communication challenges, especially among individuals with hearing impairments. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing interpersonal communication difficulties among individuals with hearing impairment in Japan during the pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined data from the 2022 Survey on Difficulty in Living. The study focused on individuals aged 12 years and older who held physical disability certificates for hearing impairments. The outcome was difficulties with interpersonal communication, with the primary factor of interest being the presence of a regular caregiver and the use of voice recognition software. Additional factors examined included sex, age, d

SUBMITTER: Watanabe T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11908009 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature