Effects of Economic Status on Changes in Social Networks and Mental Health after Using Hearing Aids

Objectives Hearing impairment affects social networks and mental health. Hearing aids (HA) can improve these deficits. However, their effects might be affected by various factors such as economic status (ES). This study aimed to identify how ES could moderate the effects of HA on social networks, depressive mood, and cognition. Methods A prospective cohort for new HA users was established and classified into two groups based on their ES: a low ES group (LES group) and a medium to high ES group (MHES group). Audiological examination, Lubben social network scale‐18 (LSNS‐18), Short form of Geriatric Depression Score, Mini‐Mental State Examination in the Korean version of the CERAD Assessment Packet, and surveys for satisfaction with HA were conducted before and at six months after wearing HA. Results Post‐HA application LSNS‐18 scores were not improved in the LES group whereas they revealed significant improvement in the MHES group (p = 0.003). The LES group showed lower LSNS‐18 score (p = 0.020) and its change (p = 0.042) than the MHES group. Additionally, patients with depressive moods in the MHES group showed better improvements than those in the LES group (p = 0.048). The effects of wearing HA on cognition and satisfaction with HA were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions HA did not improve social relationships and depressive moods in the LES group. Comprehensive and multidirectional support as well as hearing rehabilitation may be important for patients with LES. Level of Evidence 3 (Nonrandomized controlled cohort/follow‐up study) Laryngoscope, 134:2387–2394, 2024 Hearing aids could improve social networks and reduce depressive symptoms in patients with hearing impairment. Since hearing aid did not improve social relationships and depressive mood in the low economics impaired patients with low economic status have difficulty in improving social relationships and depressive mood, it is important to provide comprehensive and multidirectional support for hearing rehabilitation for these patients.