Central auditory processing disorder
Duke speech pathologists and audiologists work together to evaluate and treat central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), which affects how the brain recognizes and processes sounds and words. The condition, also called auditory processing disorder, typically occurs in children who have normal hearing but appear to have trouble listening, and misunderstand conversations or instructions.
Team approach to creating individualized treatment plan
The struggle to communicate can cause feelings of frustration, insecurity, defiance and sometimes aggression. Auditory processing difficulties are often misdiagnosed as attention deficit disorder. Adults may be diagnosed with central auditory processing disorder following a mild traumatic brain injury or stroke.
Duke audiologists work closely with speech pathologists to fully evaluate your ability to process auditory information. This combined approach is crucial to identifying the cluster of problems that may lead to auditory processing disorder. The information gleaned through this comprehensive process enables our speech pathologists and audiologists to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs.
CENTRAL AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER
Individualized treatment plans
If a diagnosis of central auditory processing disorder is made, we work closely with you to create a treatment plan that meets your specific needs.
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We work with teachers to identify obstacles in the classroom, and offer strategies to overcome them. We offer the same expert advice and counsel at home and in the workplace for adults.
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Our goal is to enhance you or your child’s ability to communicate clearly through speech and written language. The goal of speech therapy is to improve language difficulties, problem-solving abilities, memory, attention and other cognitive skills.
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We provide information on software-based auditory training programs designed to improve you or your child's ability to understand sounds and improve communication.
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Devices, such as a personal FM system, can be used in the classroom to address specific auditory deficits, when appropriate.
CENTRAL AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER
Comprehensive testing
Detection of central auditory processing disorder is important. Left untreated, it can result in speech and language delays, academic problems, job-related trouble, and social and interpersonal problems. Making the diagnosis requires a day-long series of tests that evaluate auditory processing and communication difficulties. The tests performed are based on age, the presence of specific auditory difficulties, language or developmental delays, and cognitive abilities.
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Rule out hearing problems related to damage to the ear or nerves.
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Measure dichotic listening (which refers to selective attention), difficulty hearing in background noise, phonological awareness and temporal processing
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Evaluate expressive, receptive language skills including auditory memory and phonological processing