Auditory Training Benefits Cochlear Implant Recipients of All Ages

Cochlear implants have improved the quality of life for countless adults and children here at the Center for Hearing and Communication. Upon receiving an implant, a recipient typically discovers that the sound quality initially may not be ideal.  But with more and more practice listening, the quality of sound improves significantly as does comprehension.

For a long time, the need for auditory training for children receiving cochlear implants has been understood.  What many people may not realize is that this training will also benefit adults. For adults (as with children) practice really is key both in and out of therapy.

Most clinicians doing therapy with cochlear implants would agree that the brain must be trained to interpret the new sound. Speechtracking is often used as part of auditory training.  In speechtracking, the client has access to the written text and the clinician reads the text not allowing the client to see facial movements.  The length and speed of the spoken words can be varied according to the client’s ability.  Often a phrase or a sentence is read and the client is asked to repeat the last word spoken. If mistakes are made, exercises are provided then and there for additional practice at the word and sound level.  Continued individualized practice leads to the client’s improvement in comprehending spoken words, sentences and paragraphs.

If you or someone you know is considering a cochlear implant, please contact the Center for Hearing and Communication (CHC) to learn how auditory training can help achieve the best results possible.  While long-term therapy is usually recommended for children, short-term therapy provides excellent results for adults. To learn more contact the Shelly and Steven Einhorn Communication here at CHC at (917) 305-7840 or email me at lvanfrank@chchearing.org. 

Warmest wishes,

Leslie Van Frank, M.A., CCC-SLP/A