Question 1

What is Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?

Accepted Answer

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a hearing problem that affects how the brain processes auditory information. Unlike hearing loss, people with APD typically have normal hearing sensitivity but struggle to interpret and make sense of sounds, particularly speech. APD affects the central auditory nervous system's ability to process auditory information efficiently and accurately, and it can significantly impact learning, communication, relationships, and quality of life.

Question 2

What is the difference between APD and hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

Hearing loss refers to reduced sensitivity to sound, meaning sounds need to be louder to be detected. APD is different in that a person with APD typically has normal hearing sensitivity and can detect sounds at normal volume levels, but their brain has difficulty accurately processing and interpreting those sounds, particularly speech. This is why a standard hearing test alone is not sufficient to diagnose APD.

Question 3

What are the signs of APD in children?

Accepted Answer

Signs of APD in children include difficulty locating where sounds are coming from, struggling to follow a series of instructions (completing some but not all, or in the wrong order), pronouncing some sounds incorrectly, frequently asking for repetition, confusing similar-sounding words such as 'sheep' and 'cheek', hearing better when watching the speaker's face, struggling to hear in background noise, difficulty keeping up when speech is fast, and appearing to ignore instructions when focused on another activity.

Question 4

What are the signs of APD in adults?

Accepted Answer

Signs of APD in adults include difficulty understanding words spoken quickly or in noisy environments or group settings, difficulty following directions or remembering verbal information, taking longer than usual to reply during conversations, problems following telephone conversations, fatigue from the effort required to listen, and avoidance of social situations involving listening.

Question 5

What conditions are associated with APD?

Accepted Answer

APD can be linked to a range of conditions. In children, APD is associated with pre-term birth, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), developmental delays and disorders, and a history of repeated ear infections. In older adults, APD can be linked to stroke and head trauma. In many cases the cause of APD is unknown, and there is no single cause.

Question 6

What does an APD assessment involve at RT Speech and Hearing?

Accepted Answer

An APD assessment at RT Speech and Hearing begins with a detailed consultation and case history covering listening difficulties, developmental history, and impact on daily life. A comprehensive hearing evaluation is conducted to rule out hearing loss. Specialised auditory processing tests are then administered, including dichotic listening tests, temporal processing tests, auditory discrimination tasks including non-speech auditory processing, and speech-in-noise evaluations. Speech and language evaluation is included where needed. Following the assessment, a detailed written report is provided with findings, diagnostic conclusions, and a personalised management plan.

Question 7

How is APD treated or managed?

Accepted Answer

APD management is personalised to each individual's needs and may include wireless remote microphones to improve the signal-to-noise ratio in noisy environments, computer-based auditory training programmes targeting specific areas of weakness, modifications to the acoustic environment in classrooms, workplaces, or at home, communication strategies to support understanding in challenging listening situations, and phonological awareness training or speech and language intervention delivered by a speech pathologist. Early intervention can assist with managing APD, and families are supported in implementing strategies across home, school, and workplace settings.

Question 8

Who performs APD assessments at RT Speech and Hearing?

Accepted Answer

APD assessments at RT Speech and Hearing are led by Dr Marc Oh, an accredited audiologist and HearingUp Network provider with specialist expertise in auditory processing disorder assessment and management. The clinic follows evidence-based protocols and industry best practice standards.

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