CAPD is an auditory deficit that affects the ability of the central nervous system to efficiently use auditory stimuli. CAPD is not a result of language, cognitive or related disorders (such as cognitive impairment and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD]). 

People with CAPD have normal hearing, yet struggle to process the meaning of speech in certain scenarios. 

 

Common Symptoms and Behaviors 

The following are commonly reported but are not limited to: 

• Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments

• Difficulty following complex verbal instructions

• Difficulty discriminating similar speech sounds (e.g. /s/ vs /sh/)

• Difficulty with sound localization

• Difficulty remembering spoken information

• Poor musical ability

• Academic difficulties (especially subjects involving reading and spelling) 

• Easily distracted

• Often requests for repetition

• Often provides inconsistent/inappropriate verbal responses

 

Assessment for CAPD Screening and Diagnosis

ENT Laser offers CAPD evaluation for school aged children with normal hearing between ages 5 to 12. The entire evaluation will comprise of 1-2 sessions, depending on the age, attention and ability of the child. 

Different tests will assess different auditory abilities (for example, the child’s ability to process speech in the presence of background noise, and ability to process speech when there are competing speech signals).

The evaluation will help the Audiologist determine whether the child has auditory processing disorder.

 

Intervention and Management 

Management programs are based on individual needs. In many circumstances, the use of assistive listening devices (such as FM systems) can be helpful in supporting the needs of a child who has CAPD. The Audiologists at ENT Laser will work closely with families and teachers continuously, to facilitate and maximize the learning potential of all CAPD children.