Auditory processing disorder treatment series#

Direct remediation for APD can be in the form of computer-based programs, one on one training with a therapist, or even a home-based program.

Lastly, direct remediation through patient-specific therapies or programs is used to address specific auditory deficits diagnosed during testing. Secondly, compensatory strategies, including strengthening problem-solving, memory, or attention can be used to overcome the deficits experienced with APD. Modifying the communication environment by using assistive listening devices, such as FM systems or hearing aids, can improve signal to noise ratios in a complex environment and improve access to information presented in an auditory manner. Treatment for APD usually focuses on three primary areas: changing the communication environment, learning to use higher-order skills to help compensate for the deficits, and remediation of the auditory deficit itself.

It is important to note that each individual is different, and APD can manifest in a wide variety of symptoms therefore, specific management and treatment is highly individualized and deficit-specific. Following testing, treatment and remediation are recommended based on the specific areas showing deficits in performance. Although an individual may exhibit many of the characteristics consistent with APD, diagnosis is only confirmed after careful testing and evaluation. Results of the testing are compared to average results of other individuals in the same age group and analyzed.Īuditory Processing Disorder is typically diagnosed when the individual has a deficit in two or more areas assessed during testing.

Auditory processing disorder treatment series#

Following determination of hearing thresholds, a specific series of tests are administered for proper diagnosis of APD which require the listener to closely attend to a variety of signals with and without competing background noise and respond appropriately. The initial step in the evaluation and diagnosis process involves a complete audiologic assessment to determine the individual’s hearing sensitivity. APD is diagnosed by an audiologist, but is often assessed in a multidisciplinary approach between a team of professionals in order to fully understand the multitude of challenges exhibited by those with APD. While APD is common, there are not many professionals who specialize in the area of diagnosing and treating APD. It can be overwhelming to determine the first step to take if a child or loved one is suspected to have APD. Though most commonly seen in school-aged children, APD can affect both children and adults and often result from developmental delays, TBI or head injuries, or disorders of the Central Auditory System. or even discriminating between similar sounding speech sounds.difficulty understanding rapid speakers,.struggling to understand in difficult situations,.or issues with the timing of auditory information.combining information between two ears,.have trouble filling in missing auditory information,.listening in complex environments or when background noise is present,.