|
(Miami Beach, FL - November 16-18, 2006)
What: As we live longer, we commonly experience physiological changes in the auditory system, cognition, memory, and speech processing, all of which impact our ability to efficiently and effectively understand what others say. Challenges in communication for aging populations will be among the 1,500 educational sessions offered during the 2006 Convention of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
When: November 16-18, 2006
Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, FL
Sessions:
Thursday, Nov. 16
9:30-11:30 am
(CC*-D131)
Cognition, Speech Understanding, & Aging: Considerations for Diagnosis & Treatment
Seniors often have difficulty understanding speech in the presence of interference like background noise or babble, or distortion due to rapid or accented speech. Complicating a deterioration in speech understanding due to hearing loss are cognitive decline and other nonauditory factors. The most effective interventions consider the interplay among physical, emotional, social, audiological, and cognitive factors. Case studies will illustrate treatment approaches for achieving maximum communication effectiveness.
Thursday, Nov. 16
3-4:30 pm
(CC-Hall D)
Influence of Cardiovascular Health on Auditory Function in Older Adults
Research indicates a positive relationship between cardiovascular health and fitness and resistance of the hearing system to auditory (peripheral and central nervous system) decline. Potential for future research and possible new avenues for hearing rehabilitation for older adults also will be highlighted.
Friday, Nov. 17
1-2:00 pm
(CC-B114-B115)
Central Auditory Processing in Aural Rehabilitation for Older Adults
Over the past 30 years, it has become commonly accepted that many older persons with impaired hearing exhibit the combined effects of both hearing loss and central nervous system auditory decline. The latter is evidenced by a difficulty in understanding others in spite of a hearing loss that is not severe. Evidence for rehabilitation that addresses auditory processing and cognition are presented.
Saturday, Nov. 18
1:30-2:30 pm
(CC-A204-A205)
Brain Aerobics for Seniors: Results of Research & Program Description
Research has clarified what the difference is between normal cognitive aging and abnormal cognitive decline associated with the onset of dementia. Cognitive decline is not inevitable and research suggests the progression of cognitive decline may be slowed down by stimulation. While working on mental activities, like puzzles, may be helpful, emerging research recommends individualized programs that focus on "problem areas" known to decline. A 10-week treatment program will illustrate an approach targeting prevention of cognitive decline in 25 seniors. Results of the research, including program effectiveness measured subjectively and objectively, will be presented. Videoclips of interviews will illustrate participant response.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing organization for more than 123,000 audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the U.S. and internationally.
*Miami Beach Convention Center
###
|