Auditory Processing Evaluations

An Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a weakness in the way the brain processes and interprets the incoming auditory signal.

Those with APD can have an essentially normal hearing evaluation, however, they struggle processing auditory information. This may be because the brain is unable to properly interpret the incoming information, which can impact multiple academic and communication areas. These may include listening, learning, language, speech production, spelling, reading, socializing, and problem solving. APD evaluations are administered by audiologists and can be performed on those seven years of age and older.

Our Audiologists analyze the results of testing and devise a comprehensive therapy plan with the help of a multidisciplinary team. Additionally, our Speech Pathologists often provide intervention services that include compensatory strategies to both the patient and those working with the patient.

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How is Auditory Processing Disorder diagnosed?

For the majority of patients, the presence of APD can be determined during a single appointment with one of our Audiologists. During this appointment, several tests will be administered and analyzed, then reviewed with the patient and/or family following testing. At the end of this 60-90 minute visit, a better understanding of the individual’s specific areas of concern will be addressed and recommendations will be discussed.

Diagnostic Tests that are administered:

A tympanometric evaluation is a test that measures the movement of the tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, in response to pressure changes. This helps to determine if there is a physical abnormality within the outer or middle ear.

An audiologic evaluation includes a group of tests used to measure hearing sensitivity. These tests include both pure tone and speech testing. The information from these tests can identify if hearing loss exists, and if so, what degree and type of hearing loss is present. Learn more about our typical Audiologic Evaluations here.

Unlike the standard speech tests performed, this test is presented in the presence of background noise. During this test, the individual will hear a list of words in each ear along with a high level of noise. The patient will ignore the noise and repeat the presented word. The results of this test will help the audiologist to discern the individual’s speech perception abilities when in the presence of noise.

The purpose of this test is to tax the auditory system in order to analyze how the brain processes the incoming auditory stimuli. The patient will be presented with 4 words via headphones. Some of these words will be presented to the right ear, some to the left ear, while some are presented simultaneously to both ears. Our audiologists analyze the individual’s responses to interpret how the brain is receiving and interpreting the incoming stimuli.

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