Assessing Cognitive Function in Normal Hearing Listeners Using Braincheck

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Madeline Skeeters
Fawen Zhang

Abstract

By Madeline Skeeter, Speech Language and Hearing Sciences


Advisor: Fawen Zhang


Presentation ID: 234


Abstract: Human auditory processing involves both sensory representation of sound stimuli such as speech in the auditory system (bottom-up processing) and top-down influence from cognitive components such as memory, attention and executive function. Individuals with hearing disorders often have interruptions in these processes, resulting in poor speech performance. This study aims to examine normal listeners' cognitive function using an online test battery in BrainCheck software. Data obtained in this study will serve as normative data for future studies that examine the cognitive function of individuals with abnormal hearing. A group of (n=8) normal hearing listeners were recruited. Cognitive tests (Trails A and B for visual attention; Immediate and Delayed Recall for memory; Stroop Color and Word Test for executive function; Digital Symbol Substitution Test for processing speed and accuracy) were self-administered in BrainCheck using participants' home computers or iPads. Results showed mean scores + standard deviations of cognitive tests were 101.25+13.40 for Trail Making Test A, 105.75 +7.80 for Trail Making Test B, 104.88+9.85 for Digit Symbol Substitution Test, 101.00+7.39 for Stroop Color and Word Test, 101.13+13.86 for Immediate Recall Test, 104.38+9.50 for Delayed Recall Test. Our results were consistent with the normative data (100+15 for each test) provided by BrainCheck. BrainCheck offers cognitive test batteries that can be easily self-administered, and it will be used to test individuals with hearing disorders in future studies.

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Category: Medical Interventions