This study examined the effects of the cochlear hearing loss of 12 adults on two measures of sequential processing that rely on spectro-temporal information: a gap-detection discrimination task and a melody recognition task. It was concluded that cochlear hearing loss deleteriously affects the processes underlying perceptual organization of…

This study compared the speech perception skills over time (mean = 3.5 years) of 74 prelingually deaf children using cochlear implants with the predicted speech perception skills of 58 similar children using hearing aids. Generally, speech perception scores for the children using cochlear implants were higher that those predicted for children with…

Purpose: This pilot study explored the feasibility and effectiveness of an Internet-based telerehabilitation application for the assessment of motor speech disorders in adults with acquired neurological impairment. Method: Using a counterbalanced, repeated measures research design, 2 speech-language pathologists assessed 19 speakers with…

The nature and effects of head trauma are discussed. Among the most common deficits noted are impaired cognition, difficulties in oral and written communication, sensory problems, and marked personality changes. Suggestions are offered for dealing with each type of deficit, such as using alarm clocks and other tools to remind the individual about…

A survey of adventitiously deafened adults (N=25) found that 16 subjects used assistive devices including telecaptioners, telecommunication/telephone devices for the deaf, and alerting devices, and that nine subjects used no assistive devices. Subjects using devices reported improved independence, ability to communicate, and quality of life.…

The article presents results of a study of employers (N=100) regarding their concerns about disabled workers and employer interest in partnership with rehabilitation agencies. Employers were questioned concerning recruitment and selection, technical assistance from rehabilitation organizations, incentives, and mid-career disability onset.…

Analysis of late-blind Norwegian adults' (N=35) reading rates (texts and single words) in contracted and uncontracted Braille revealed that: rates were higher for reading contracted versions of text and single words, and highest for contracted single words. "Slow" readers saved more time when reading texts which frequently used…

A congenitally disabled psychotherapist recounts her own experiences in learning to accept her body and notes the differences in self-esteem needs of congenitally versus adventitiously impaired persons. Helpful parental attitudes and actions are discussed. (CL)

Imagery and visualization, both voluntary and involuntary, can be used therapeutically in the adaptation processes of congenitally and adventitiously blind persons. Imagery and visualization can help clients make psychosocial changes necessary to improve mental attitudes and to return to the mainstream. (Author/JDD)

This article on young adults with brain damage in New South Wales (Australia) focuses on epidemiological considerations and implications for management. Jointly planning for provision of services for individuals who have either congenital or acquired brain damage is recommended, in view of their similar needs. (JDD)

Focuses on a population of disabled people who are aging with pre-existing physical disabilities. Distinguishes between those who experience prolonged aging and those who experience accelerated aging. Provides four case examples to illustrate the practice implications faced by social workers in partnering with people with pre-existing…

This brief article summarizes a review of 19 textbooks to teach braille to blind adults. The review covered four parameters: general information, text organization, the braille code, and instructional characteristics. (DB)

This abstract summarizes recent statistics on the prevalence and causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), the populations it affects, and the degree of disability it causes. Estimates are based on 1985-1987 data from the National Health Interview Survey, a household survey of the noninstitutionalized U.S. population. Analysis indicates: the…

Some statistics are presented concerning age of onset, cause, and additional handicaps from a nationwide sample (1972-73) of 43,946 hearing impaired students enrolled in 712 special education programs. (Author/LS)

The author examines the social and economic forces affecting adventitiously blinded men in terms of goal setting, family life, attitudes, status, and income. Case records suggest that adventitiously blinded male must set realistic employment goals and make personal and social adjustments or risk facing a life of dependency. (Author/CL)