At Hearing Advantage, we understand that auditory processing disorders (APD) can significantly impact a person’s daily life. With a dedicated team, led by the esteemed Dr. Betty McNamara, our audiology practice specializes in comprehensive testing and targeted treatments designed to identify and manage this complex disorder. Our goal is to empower patients of all ages to hear and communicate effectively in their environment.
Specialized Assessment Techniques for Auditory Processing Disorders
Identifying auditory processing disorders requires meticulous assessment approaches that go beyond standard hearing tests. At Hearing Advantage, we employ a variety of specialized techniques tailored to accurately evaluate auditory processing abilities.
- Behavioral Audiometric Testing: This includes a series of tests that engage patients in specific tasks designed to evaluate their ability to process and respond to sounds. These tests often involve listening to words or sentences in noise, and assessing how well the patient can understand or follow auditory directions.
- Speech-in-Noise Tests: We utilize these tests to determine how well individuals can decipher speech when background noise is present, which is a crucial skill affected by APD. Patients may be required to listen to sentences while competing noise is played, providing valuable insights into their processing capabilities.
- Dichotic Listening Tasks: Dichotic listening tests challenge the brain’s ability to process different auditory information coming into each ear simultaneously. This enables us to assess inter-hemispheric transfer of auditory information, revealing potential asymmetries in auditory processing.
- Auditory Memory and Ordering Tests: We also evaluate auditory memory through tasks that require patients to recall sequences of sounds, words, or digits after a brief delay. This aspect of testing assesses both short-term memory and the ability to hold and manipulate auditory information, critical functions of auditory processing.
- Comprehensive Case History Evaluation: A thorough case history, including developmental, medical, and educational assessments, is vital. It allows us to understand the individual’s background better and contextualizes test results with observed behaviors in different settings (e.g., home, school).
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, Hearing Advantage is committed to providing individualized treatment plans tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. Our approach integrates evidence-based treatment modalities designed to enhance auditory processing skills.
At Hearing Advantage, we believe that understanding and effectively managing auditory processing disorders requires a multifaceted approach. Our commitment to thorough testing, targeted treatment, and continuous support ensures that our patients can look forward to a brighter auditory future.