Evaluation of Auditory Processing and Working Memory Abilities in Individuals with Chronic Renal Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis

ABSTRACT

The auditory processing abilities in individuals with chronic renal disease (CRD) undergoing hemodialysis and the effect of the frequency of hemodialysis sessions on auditory processing have minimally been investigated. Hence, in Experiment 1, we measured auditory processing abilities in 30 individuals with CRD undergoing hemodialysis and 30 matched controls. CRD group was sub-divided based on the frequency of hemodialysis sessions. Hemodialysis significantly affected auditory processing abilities. The frequency of hemodialysis sessions did not affect auditory processing. As the literature review showed that auditory processing is associated with working memory, in Experiment 2, we measured working memory and its relationship with auditory processes. Those who participated in experiment 1 were considered for this experiment also. Working memory was significantly affected in individuals with CRD undergoing hemodialysis. The frequency of hemodialysis sessions also significantly affected working memory. Auditory processing and working memory must be assessed in individuals with CRD undergoing hemodialysis, and proper treatment measures for improving processing abilities must be considered for these individuals.

KEYWORDS:

• Hemodialysis
• temporal processing
• speech perception in noise
• working memory auditory processing

Acknowledgments

The authors extend their sincere gratitude to Dr. N.P. Nataraja, Director, JSS Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mysuru, for extending his support throughout the study.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Financial Support

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency, commercial, or not-for-profit sector.