A Case Study of an 11-year-old with Auditory Processing Disorder

Abstract

The article presents a case study of a child ('Sally') with multiple risk factors for auditory processing disorder (APD), including low birth weight and a history of otitis media. Sally presented for auditory processing assessment at age 7 years 9 months due to learning difficulties, despite normal intelligence. Sally had persistent mild hearing loss associated with repeated middle ear infections and hearing aids were trailed at 22 months. Mother reported increased vocalisations and improved listening with hearing aids. Three years later, hearing aids were withdrawn, as Sally's hearing thresholds had improved. Following diagnosis of APD an FM device was trailed successfully, but Sally is no longer using the device. Trial of more discrete FM devices is recommended. Despite using hearing aids as a preschooler and using an FM device for a year, Sally has continued to have auditory difficulties. An inter-disciplinary approach involving the family and other professionals such as teachers, educational psychologists, speech pathologists, and audiologists, might have ensured better outcomes for Sally.