About Communication Disorders
Communication and hearing disorders are prevalent in all age groups, including children, adults and older adults. If communication and hearing disorders persist, they can interfere with education, well being and quality of life.
Speech and Language Difficulties in Children
About Hearing Disorders
- Hearing loss is the second most chronic condition affecting older adults
- Hearing can usually be improved with hearing devices
- Hearing loss negatively impacts on ones ability to communicate, social interaction and quality of life.
Types of Hearing Disorders
- Conductive Hearing Loss – Occurs when the cause of the loss lies in the external or middle ear. eg. Middle ear infection.
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss – Occurs when the cause of the loss lies in the cochlea and /or auditory nerve. eg. Excessive noise exposure.
Central Auditory Processing Disorder
Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) occurs when the cause of the difficulty lies within the Central Auditory Nervous System. Usually people with CAPD have normal hearing but still have difficulties processing spoken information particularly in difficult listening environments.