This article explores the multifaceted challenges that adult language learners face in developing effective listening comprehension skills. It begins by emphasizing the significance of listening as an active, meaning-making process essential for communication and language development. The discussion highlights several common difficulties such as memory limitations, fast speech, limited vocabulary, pronunciation issues, and cultural unfamiliarity. Drawing on various studies, the article further examines how age-related cognitive and sensory decline affects auditory processing and comprehension, especially in second language (L2) contexts. It also reflects on the role of metacognitive strategies and learner confidence in overcoming these obstacles. The article concludes by urging educators to apply appropriate teaching methods and strategies that consider the diverse needs and limitations of adult learners to foster effective listening comprehension.

Listening comprehension, adult language learners, second language acquisition, hearing difficulties, short-term memory, speech rate, pronunciation, vocabulary limitations, metacognitive strategies, age-related decline, auditory processing, EFL/ESL, communication skills, language proficiency, listening strategies.

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