Vital Role of Hearing in Speech-Language Services for Neurogenic Disorders

Purpose: Hearing loss appears to be quite pervasive in adults with neurological disorders that are diagnosed and treated by speech-language pathologists (SLPs). However, several studies also indicate that health care providers, including SLPs, do not consistently conduct hearing screenings or make referrals for comprehensive audiological evaluation. Furthermore, when hearing screenings are conducted, SLPs often do not follow the guidelines established by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The purpose of this clinical focus article is twofold: (a) to present an overview of the effects of unaddressed or inadequately managed hearing loss (UIMHL) in acquired neurological communication disorders and (b) to provide practical solutions for SLPs who work with adults with neurological communication disorders and UIMHL. Method: A summary of hearing loss and its impact is presented. It exposes recent research findings on how hearing loss affects neurological impairments and provides a literature review to highlight the impact of UIMHL on speech perception, cognition, and language and ways to address it in these populations. Conclusions: The importance of evaluating existing hearing and the role of SLPs in addressing hearing loss is highlighted. A series of recommendations is then provided to assist SLPs in making accommodations and modifications during assessment and treatment. Moreover, through a case study, the authors provide an example of an in-person delivery model for speech therapy, demonstrating how knowledge of UIMHL could guide the differential diagnosis and intervention for people with neurological disorders.