What Is LACE?

LACE stands for Listening and Communication Enhancement. LACE® is a self-directed computer-based auditory training program. Just as physical therapy can help rebuild muscles and adjust movements to compensate for physical weakness or injury, LACE® will help you develop skills and strategies to deal with situations when hearing is inadequate. LACE® does not compensate for a hearing loss (like hearing aids do) but instead helps to improve your listening skills. In summary, hearing aids are designed to focus on your ears, LACE® is designed to focus on your brain.

Where does LACE® come from?

LACE® was developed by audiologists at the University of California at San Francisco. Several research studies have demonstrated the benefits of LACE®. (see references below).

What does LACE® Involve?

LACE® involves completing twenty-minute training sessions for 10-20 days. The number of days varies depending on the version of the software used. It involves practice listening to speech in noise, understanding rapid speakers, understanding when competing speakers are present, word memory and practice filling in “missing words.” The software also covers various practical strategies that can be used to optimize communication. Some versions of the software can send your results directly to your audiologist using secure HIPAA

compliant software. The software is available as a CD-ROM, a software download, DVD, or an Online Version.

How much does LACE® cost?

The lace software is typically less than $100. Prices differ depending on the version you select.

Where can I find more information? www.neurotone.com

References:

· Henderson Sabes, J., & Sweetow, R. W. (2007). Variables predicting outcomes on listening and communication enhancement (LACETM) training. International Journal of Audiology, 46(7), 374-383.

· Sweetow, R. W., & Sabes, J. H. (2006). The need for and development of an adaptive listening and communication enhancement (LACE™)

program. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 17(8), 538-558.

· Song, J. H., Skoe, E., Banai, K., & Kraus, N. (2011). Training to improve hearing speech in noise: biological mechanisms. Cerebral Cortex, bhr196