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What is Cortical Deafness?

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Summary

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Cortical deafness is when a person’s ears can hear sounds, but their brain has difficulty processing and understanding them. The ears work well, but the brain struggles to make sense of the sounds they hear.

Frequently Asked Question

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How is Cortical Deafness diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves comprehensive hearing tests, along with assessments by audiologists and speech-language pathologists to evaluate auditory processing abilities.

Can Cortical Deafness be genetic?

Yes, Cortical Deafness can have a genetic basis, and it may also result from acquired brain injuries or neurological conditions affecting the auditory cortex.

Can children with Cortical Deafness attend regular schools?

Yes, with appropriate support and accommodations, many children with Cortical Deafness can attend regular schools. Individualized education plans (IEPs) and assistive technologies can help create a conducive learning environment.

Is Cortical Deafness the same as regular deafness or hearing loss?

No, Cortical Deafness is different from regular deafness or hearing loss. In Cortical Deafness, the ears can hear sounds, but the brain has difficulty processing and understanding those sounds.

Scientific Definition

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Cortical deafness, scientifically known as auditory agnosia, is a condition where the auditory cortex in the brain has difficulty interpreting and recognizing sounds, despite the individual’s ears being able to hear them accurately. This results in an inability to comprehend and respond to auditory stimuli, even though the hearing organs may function normally. It is a disconnection between hearing perception and sound understanding in the brain.

Treatment for Cortical Deafness

While there is no cure for cortical deafness, early intervention and therapies can significantly improve a child’s auditory processing abilities and overall communication skills. Here are some effective treatments and strategies to support children with cortical deafness:

  • Auditory Training: Engage your child in auditory training exercises, such as identifying sounds, distinguishing between various tones, and improving sound recognition.
  • Speech Therapy: Enroll your child in speech therapy to enhance their language development, articulation, and communication skills.
  • Assistive Communication Devices: Utilize Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, like Goally’s apps, to aid language comprehension and expression.
  • Visual Aids: Implement visual aids like digital schedules and picture cards to reinforce verbal instructions and enhance understanding.
  • Social Skills Training: Help your child with social interactions and communication through role-playing and skills training videos.

With consistent support and early intervention, children with cortical deafness can make remarkable progress in their communication and language abilities. 

Symptoms of Cortical Deafness

Cortical deafness can present unique challenges in auditory processing, leading to difficulties in understanding and responding to sounds. Here are some common signs to look for:

  1. Delayed Speech and Language Development: Children with cortical deafness may experience delays in speaking and understanding language as they struggle to process auditory information.
  2. Difficulty Following Instructions: They may need help following verbal instructions or responding appropriately to spoken commands.
  3. Lack of Response to Sounds: Individuals may not respond to their name being called or other auditory cues, even though their hearing is intact.
  4. Misunderstanding Speech: They might need to be more accurate and understand speech, leading to clarity in social interactions.
  5. Challenges with Phonics and Reading: Cortical deafness can impact phonetic awareness and reading comprehension skills.

Early identification of these symptoms allows for timely intervention and support, helping children with cortical deafness thrive in their learning and communication journey. Goally’s tablet and apps help kids with cortical deafness build life and language skills through fun activities, digital visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, and skills training videos.