Typical behaviors associated with SDSL, like recognizing familiar faces and difficulties following a conversation with background noise, can easily be observed qualitatively.
Early identification of sensory problems can prevent the development of passivity and dependence by providing the individual with relevant aids and individual adaptation of the environment.
The checklist was developed by Else Marie Svingen and Kolbein Lyng in 2001 to identify old adults with severe dual sensory loss (SDSL) in Norway. The checklist was designed to be used for this purpose by the staff in the long-term care for the elderly in Norwegian municipalities.