“Addressing the Silent Need”

Background Clinical Specialist Teams (CST) are a foundational component of the Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) providing care for older adults with complex needs, completing Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments (CGA) and supporting goals until outcomes are optimised (HSE, 2021). WHO (2014) estimates 400 million individuals worldwide are affected by hearing loss, with prevalence increasing with age. The WHO in 2024 recommended targeted hearing screening and interventions in older age. NICE guidelines (2023) issued specific recommendations for adults with suspected or diagnosed dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The aim of this study was to review current practice of sensory assessment with respect to these recommendations. Methods This is a retrospective audit to evaluate current practice against established standards and to identify areas for improvement to achieve best practice. This will form part of an ongoing quality improvement initiative. Data was collected using a team designed tool gathering information on sensory assessment, interventions and onward referrals. A sample of 65 ICPOP clients was chosen from the last quarter of 2023. Results Preliminary results: Conclusion Screening rates for sensory impairment in the CST is high but needs improvement to reach the target of 100%. Referral onto appropriate services for specialised sensory intervention is actioned adequately, but there is need for the CST to advise timely hearing and vision testing to clients in order to adhere to international guidelines, especially those clients with dementia/MCI.