Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigated the association between age at cochlear implantation and executive function outcomes, including cognitive flexibility (CF) and planning and problem-solving (PPS), in school-age children with cochlear implants (CIs). Demographic, cognitive, and audiological factors associated with these outcomes were also examined.
Methods
Sixty-one children with CIs aged 8–10 years were divided into Infancy CI (implanted within the first year of life;
n
= 30) and Toddlerhood CI groups (implanted between 13 and 24 months;
n
= 31). CF was assessed using the Modified Card Sorting Test and PPS using the Tower of London Test. Group comparisons, correlations, and hierarchical regression analyses were performed.
Results
The Infancy CI group showed significantly better CF and PPS performance than the Toddlerhood CI group (
p
p
Conclusion
Earlier cochlear implantation is associated with better executive function outcomes, although different domains appear to be influenced by distinct factors. CF may be more closely related to language development, whereas PPS may be more strongly associated with implantation timing and auditory access.