Auditory Processing

What is Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?

Auditory Processing is a term to describe how the brain interprets sounds that we hear, for example the difference in pitch between two sounds.

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is where a person can detect sounds at normal levels but can not process the sound information accurately. When this occurs in children it can lead to learning difficulties and sometimes behavioral issues.

A parent or teacher may suspect a child with APD if they have:

• Difficulty following instruction
• Difficulty understanding speech in the presence of background noise
• Difficulty learning in background noise
• Become easily distracted
• Lower than average reading skills
• Poorer verbal skills
• Behavioural and self esteem issues

Assessing APD

If a child is suspected to have APD then he or she can be assessed over a 90 minute appointment that involves:

• Taking a case history to learn about the child’s learning and hearing skills
• Performing a hearing assessment to determine the child’s auditory thresholds
• Performing a series of Auditory Processing Tests

What age can we assess for APD?

APD tests can be performed on children from age 7+ years.

Management of APD

Management of APD involves a team approach with other professionals such a Speech Pathologists and Teachers. This typically involves three approaches:

• Environment modifications such a seating the child away from distracting noises or using a FM system to reduce unwanted noises.
• The use of intervention programs designed to improve auditory processing in children.
• Teaching compensatory strategies so the child can cope better in daily listening environments.