You might have problems processing rapid changes of sound, which could explain why you find it difficult to keep up with fast-paced conversation or noisy conversations. The new study reveals a training method that may help to manage this issue and improve listening ability.
It is also known as rate discrimination training. It is possible to practice the ability of the brain to distinguish between the speeds of sounds. The study shows that the brain can distinguish between different speeds of sounds.This technique could improve the hearing ability of millions of seniors, despite the fact that our ability to discern sounds is declining. As we age.
Sensible changes in sound are possible due to the brain’s ability of processing sound stimuli over time. This is called auditory temporal process. This doesn’t only affect our understanding and appreciation of speech, but it also helps us to make sense of all sounds that reach our ears.
“While we have evidence to suggest that these temporal processing deficiencies might be corrected in animal models of the disease, this is the first instance in which it has been demonstrated in humans.” “Samira Anderson, University of Maryland auditory neuroscientist
The study involved 40 volunteers who completed rate discrimination training. This involved completing nine sessions, each 45–60 minutes long, during which participants were asked to distinguish between sets of tones played in a rapid sequence.
Through the training, these individuals had to spot changes in frequency – identifying which tones in a series had a higher or lower pitch. Similar tests were conducted before and after the training to evaluate each participant’s ability for recognizing changes in audio.
The rate discrimination training was more effective than the sessions that involved a simple tone detection exercise.
This was true for both young and old participants, as well as older participants with hearing impairment.
Overall, audio detection test scores were better after the training process than they were beforehand – with some older volunteers getting results after training comparable with younger volunteers before training.
Researchers write that the results “demonstrate auditory training’s potential to partially restore temporal processing for older listeners, and highlight the role cognitive function in these gains.” Publication of paper.
Similar studies were done in the past: For example, musical training. Has been shownTo improve the temporal processing abilities of people with normal hearing. Scientists have also Evidence has been shown thatThe brain retains some plasticity (a capability for) Modifying or rewiring the connections) into old age.
This study was intended to further investigate these areas, especially in order to examine how rate training exercises might affect auditory temporal processing in older and younger individuals.
There’s always more to do. The researchers are interested in a follow up study. Other groups can be recruitedTo find out more about rate discrimination training and the potential positive effects it may have,
Also, the team wants to examine how memory demands might affect the effectiveness of these exercises.
“These results are a great opportunity to develop clinically-practicable auditory training programs which can improve older listeners ability to communicate in difficult circumstances,” “Sandra Gordon-Salant, an audiologist also from the University of Maryland, was the lead researcher on the project.
The publication of the research was published in Journal of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology.
