Influence of the coexistence of visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discomfort on the quality of life of middle-aged adults: an analysis based on the 2019 and 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Purpose: Visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discomfort each influence quality of life (QoL). However, little is known regarding the impact of their coexistence on QoL. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the influence of the coexistence of visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discomfort on QoL among middle-aged adults aged 40-64. Methods: This study involved a secondary data analysis utilizing the data from years 1 and 2 of the eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. To evaluate the influence of the coexistence of visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discomfort on QoL, we conducted a complex sample hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Results: When visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discomfort coexisted, the QoL was significantly lower than in individuals without any of these condi-tions. Conclusion: The coexistence of visual impairment, hearing impairment, and masticatory discom-fort was negatively correlated with QoL. Therefore, it is important to prepare for old age through ap-propriate health management during middle age.