Many people are unaware of what (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder in adults looks like. 

APD is not just about hearing problems; it’s about how the brain interprets sounds. 

It’s common among autistic individuals, with research showing that 55 to 80 percent of them may also have APD. 

However, it’s important to note that APD can affect anyone, not just those on the autism spectrum. 

This is an often-overlooked fact that deserves attention, especially in adults.

Dr. Angela Alexander, an experienced audiologist, shares insights from her work with a client named Jackie to help raise awareness about this often-misunderstood condition.

Jackie’s Journey (Auditory Processing Disorder in Adults) 

Jackie first had her hearing tested in October 2013. The results indicated normal hearing sensitivity, but the audiologist suspected APD. 

Unfortunately, no referrals were made at that time. 

Fast forward to May 2019, Jackie visited her family doctor, expressing that she didn’t have hearing loss, yet struggled to understand conversations. 

This brought her to an otologist for further evaluation.

During a speech-in-noise test at the audiologist’s office, Jackie’s results were normal, which led to no additional testing. 

However, her otologist decided to refer her to Dr. Alexander’s clinic based on Jackie’s ongoing difficulties in various settings, including work meetings and movie screenings.

Assessing Jackie’s Symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder in Adults

At the clinic, Jackie completed a questionnaire known as the Hearing Inventory for Adults (HHIA). 

Although this tool isn’t specifically created for APD, it provided valuable insight into how hearing issues affect daily life.

Jackie’s responses revealed significant struggles. Here are some of her key answers:

• Difficulty hearing coworkers and clients: Yes
• Feeling handicapped by her hearing problem: Yes
• Struggles in noisy environments: Sometimes
• Impact on social life: Yes

Her score on the questionnaire was 82 out of 100, indicating serious challenges due to hearing problems. 

Further testing showed that 99% of the adult population performed better than her on specific auditory tasks.

Treatment of Auditory Processing Disorder in Adults and Results

To address her auditory processing challenges, Jackie participated in 12 one-hour sessions of auditory training.

After completing the sessions, her retest results showed improvement, although she still scored lower than 85% of her peers.

Here’s a comparison of Jackie’s scores:

June 2019: 82 out of 100

Post-treatment: 30 out of 100

Follow-up six months later: 14 out of 100

This significant drop illustrates the positive changes Jackie experienced through targeted therapy.

Key Takeaways of Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder in Adults 

There are two main messages from Jackie’s experience:

1. Auditory processing disorder in adults is treatable.

 With appropriate and professional intervention, auditory processing difficulties can improve significantly, allowing individuals like Jackie to regain their functional abilities.

2. Advocate for yourself; make them listen. 

As an individual who experiences the world differently, learning to advocate for ourselves is extremely important.

When audiologists and other professionals don’t seem to listen, it is crucial to keep talking until they believe and see our struggles. 

Simple screening tests may not fully capture the challenges people face in their daily lives.

Strategies for Navigating the Workplace with APD

Support systems in the workplace can be invaluable for individuals with APD. For example:

• Use a Notetaker or Recording Tools – During meetings, consider using a colleague to summarize key points or recording software to review discussions later. This allows you to focus fully on listening.
• Prepare Ahead of Time – Review agendas and meeting materials in advance. Prepare questions or notes to ensure clarity during discussions.
• Ask for Written Follow-Ups – Request important instructions or decisions in writing to avoid miscommunication and ensure accuracy.

These strategies can help create a more manageable and productive work environment.

How To Be Supportive

If you know someone with an auditory processing disorder or if you want to help others to be supportive, here are several things that could help adults in the workplace with APD:

• Use Captions: Always include captions when possible. This helps with comprehension.
• Face Them When Speaking: This allows for lipreading, which can aid understanding.
• Be Patient: If they ask you to repeat something, take your time.
• Clear Communication: Offer directions both verbally and in writing to provide two ways to receive information, making it easier to understand.

These simple adjustments not only assist those with APD but also create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Conclusion

Auditory processing disorder in adults can be a hidden struggle. 

Jackie’s journey demonstrates that with proper evaluation and treatment, individuals can overcome their difficulties and improve their quality of life. 

Awareness and understanding are key to helping those affected by APD. Listening to and believing in our clients is the first step toward making meaningful changes in their lives.

You may also enjoy reading: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder in Children.