Details

Session Overview: As audiologists, we understand that hearing aid use results in improved communication and possible reductions in depression, loneliness, and social isolation. Yet, less than 20-30% of older adults who would benefit from hearing aids are regularly using them. Reasons for non-use of hearing aids are complicated but may partly be due to the new user’s perception that “it doesn’t sound right.” This perception of poor sound quality may arise from age-related changes in central auditory processing. Yet, the brain may adjust to amplified inputs over time, and knowledge of the time course of expected changes would be useful to both clinician and patient. These neural changes with amplification may be reinforced by auditory training. This presentation will review the evidence that supports neuroplasticity in older individuals through the use of hearing aids and/or auditory training and clinical implications.

 

Presenter(s): Samira Anderson

 

Event: Trans Tasman Conference 2020