![]() Usually, those with APD demonstrate problems in two or more of the categories. It should be noted that Bellis and Ferre (2002) have also developed a similar category system that is similar. There are four basic APD categories identified in the Buffalo Model (Katz & Smith 1991 & 1992). These tests consist of repeating words presented in different formats and also listening to tones presented in a variety of ways. Patients will complete testing in a soundproof booth. How Is APD Diagnosed?Īn audiologist specializing in APD will administer a comprehensive assessment, first addressing hearing sensitivity, then testing ability to process auditory stimuli. Because many of the behavioral issues closely mimic those associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other learning disabilities, an incorrect diagnosis is often made. Children often become disruptive and may take unnecessary risks or lash out at others. Individuals with APD may become withdrawn, isolated and depressed. Maintaining focus if other sounds are present.Following multi-step directions multi-step.Remembering and/or comprehending spoken information.Symptoms of APD may range from mild to severe and include difficulty with any of the following: Studies have shown the majority are able to hear normally in quiet environments the problem is in the way they process auditory information. Older adults with normal hearing may exhibit signs of age-related auditory processing deficits.Īgain, most individuals with APD don’t actually have hearing loss. In adults, approximately 15% of military veterans exhibit symptoms of APD and individuals with stroke, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and neurologic tumors are susceptible to APD. An estimated 3-5% of school-age children suffer from APD, a condition that affects their ability to process information correctly due to a disconnect between what they are hearing and how their brain responds to the sound. Most cases of APD present with normal hearing levels, though it is not uncommon to have APD with hearing loss that makes it difficult to understand speech. While hearing loss may be suspected initially, appropriate diagnostic audiologic evaluation will confirm if hearing levels are within normal limits. For adults, noisy restaurants or large groups can cause extreme difficulty. For students of all ages, an active classroom can present extraordinary challenges. Their difficulty understanding speech increases significantly in noisy environments. Children and adults experiencing auditory processing disorder (APD) may appear not to hear well however, the underlying issue is “what the brain does with what the ears hear.”-Jack Katz.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |