765The impact of childhood hearing loss on language and psychosocial outcomes: The LOCHI study

Background The Longitudinal Outcomes of Children with Hearing Impairment (LOCHI) study is a prospective study commenced in 2005 that was aimed to examine the effect of age of hearing loss identification and intervention on outcomes for children with hearing loss, such as language and psychosocial development. Permanent childhood hearing loss has a significant impact on child development. Methods 450 children identified with permanent sensorineural hearing loss prior to 3 years of age in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria completed comprehensive speech, language and audiological assessments at defined age intervals. Multiple regression analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) were completed to determine factors influencing outcomes at 5 and 9 years of age. Results Regression models indicated outcomes were significantly influenced by age of hearing loss intervention, nonverbal cognitive ability, maternal education level and communication mode. A significant predictive effect of early language skill was seen on later language development. SEM found that the impact of age of hearing loss intervention on language outcomes was mediated by its effect on cognitive development and speech perception. Language ability influenced psychosocial development. Conclusions Early identification and intervention of hearing loss improves language and psychosocial development, via its influence on cognitive development and speech perception. Key messages Early hearing loss identification and intervention improves language and psychosocial development for children with permanent sensorineural hearing loss. Evidence from the LOCHI study has guided clinical management guidelines of children with hearing loss.