(July 21, 2008 - Insidermedicine) Impairment in central auditory processing is found with even very mild memory impairment, according to research published in the Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery.

Here are some facts about central auditory processing:

•    It refers to the ability to make out relevant sounds in the presence of competing auditory stressors.

•    Difficulty with central auditory processing can often occur in those with normal or near normal hearing in quiet settings.

•    Impaired central auditory processing is not helped with traditional amplification, such as hearing aids.

Researchers from the University of Washington in Seattle tested the central auditory processing of 17 elderly people with dementia, 64 with mild memory impairment, and 232 controls. Central auditory processing was tested by having nonsense sentences read over the background of an interesting narrative and by having separate sentences or numbers read into each ear simultaneously.

Average scores on central auditory processing were significantly lower among those with dementia and mild memory impairment, compared with controls. This finding remained significant even after controlling for age and hearing impairment.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. George Gates from the University of Washington who offered some further insight.

Today's research highlights the need to screen older patients with mild memory impairment or hearing complaints for problems with central auditory processing, in order to develop an ideal rehabilitative strategy.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.