Rehabilitation strategies for adult cochlear implant users

This paper summarizes open-set speech perception results using audition alone for a large group of adult Nucleus cochlear implant users in Melbourne. The results show wide variation in performance but significant improvement over the years from 1982 to 1995. Analysis of these results shows that speech processor developments have made the major contribution to this improvement over this time. Recent results for patients using the SPECTRA-SPEAK processor show that most subjects obtain good speech perception within six months of implantation and the need for intensive auditory training is minimal for many of these patients. Postoperative care should encourage consistent device use by providing opportunities for success and providing Long term technical support for implant users. In some cases, including elderly patients, those with long term profound deafness, and those with special needs, there will still be a need for additional rehabilitation and auditory training support.