Cognitive Functions and Cross-Modal Plasticity in Children with Cochlear Implants: A Systematic Review of Research
This paper aims to systematically present existing research on cognitive and executive functions, speech and auditory perception, language, literacy, and academic development, and cross-modal reorganization in children with CIs. The methodology included a systematic search of databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) using keywords related to cognition and CIs. After eliminating duplicates and applying inclusion criteria, an analysis was conducted of relevant references published from 2015 to the present, which were analyzed both in tables and narratively. Research confirms that the cognitive development of children with CIs depends on auditory input and the brain’s ability to integrate information from different sensory modalities. Multisensory and interactive approaches to rehabilitation have the potential to enhance cognitive development and should be further researched and applied in practice.