When it comes to programming your hearing aids, you want it done right! Your hearing aids are supposed to add to your quality of life, so it’s important that the programming is appropriate for your hearing loss. The “gold standard” for verifying programming of hearing aids is called Real Ear Measurements (REM). At Gardner Audiology in New Port Richey, FL, our providers use REM on all hearing aid fittings!
You might be wondering, “how does REM work?” First, a small probe microphone is placed in the ear with the hearing aid. Different sounds can be played, or people can speak, and the equipment is able to measure the output of the hearing aid at your ear drum. This allows providers to adjust the programming of the hearing aid for each individual patient based on their unique hearing loss!
REM is not only used at the initial hearing aid fitting – it can be used if the hearing aids need to be reprogrammed, or if you are still struggling in a certain situation. For instance, some patients who struggle to hear their spouse will bring them to the appointment, and REM can be used with their spouse’s voice! This means that the patient’s hearing aids are now specially programmed to help them understand their spouse’s voice specifically! You can see exactly what the hearing aids are doing in real time.
You may also be wondering, “why REM?” While each person’s hearing loss is unique to them, so are their ear canals! The size, length, shape, and volume of your ear canals all play a role in how sound is perceived. Using REM allows your provider to take those factors into account while programming your hearing aids! Unfortunately, not many hearing healthcare providers utilize REM, which is why it is important to find a provider who does! If you are interested in hearing aids, or having your hearing aids reprogrammed using REM, please contact Gardner Audiology in New Port Richey, FL at 1-800-277-1182, or visit gardneraudiology.com to schedule an appointment.
