How a hearing aid is programmed can dramatically impact your success. Hearing aid manufacturers use an averaged ‘guestimate’ of what your hearing aid should be set at based on your hearing loss. Many factors can influence this average, including the size and shape of your ear canal and how the hearing aid fits in your ear.
Real ear measures involve placing a small microphone in your ear along with the hearing aid. This microphone measures the exact output of the hearing aid in your ear. It essentially allows your audiologist to measure the volume of the hearing aid at different pitches. Then, the hearing aid is fit to your prescriptive target, which has been created by a highly-researched formula.
Sometimes, the manufacturer’s suggested settings are almost spot on! Other times, however, the generic settings are significantly off from your prescriptive target. If this is the case, the patient will likely not have as much success with their hearing aids.
Gardner Audiology uses Real Ear Measures at their fittings to ensure your hearing aids are performing at their best. Real Ear Measures can also be used on existing hearing aids to determine if they are functioning appropriately for you. To schedule an appointment, contact Gardner Audiology at 800-277-1182 or gardneraudiology.com
