There are many benefits to treating your hearing loss. In fact, according to one 2021 study published in the journal Trends in Hearing, “Social activity level increased and social participation restriction decreased significantly after hearing aid fitting in the intervention group compared to the control group.”
But treating hearing loss isn’t as simple as just purchasing hearing aids. The process of learning to hear sounds again is called aural rehabilitation. We review what this process entails below.
Audiological Assessment
The first step toward better hearing is to undergo a thorough audiological assessment. An audiologist can conduct this type of testing, which usually involves a number of different types of assessments, including but not limited to:
- Pure tone audiometry
- Speech testing
- Tympanometry
- Auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing
- Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) testing
The results of these tests are plotted on an audiogram, which is a visual representation of your hearing loss.
Needs Assessment
After your audiological assessment, your audiologist will then conduct a needs assessment. You can prepare for this part of your appointment by organizing a list of situations where you can’t hear or communicate as well as you’d like and what your goals are for these scenarios. For example, you may wish to better hear the voices of your grandchildren at family get-togethers or specific notes at Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra during Spanish Nights.
Prescriptive Device
Now is when the hearing aids come in. Based on your audiological and needs assessments, your audiologist will prescribe one or a set of hearing aids. These medical devices work by amplifying sounds to a level you can hear. Alternatively, you may be prescribed cochlear implants, which work by bypassing the damaged parts of the ear.
Counseling
Your audiologist won’t just assess your hearing and fit you with hearing aids; they’ll also conduct ongoing counseling on communication strategies so you can follow along with conversations with greater ease. This will come in especially handy as we’re in the holiday season, as you’ll be able to hear everyone at the table. To learn more about aural rehabilitation or to schedule an appointment with an audiologist, call Hearing Healthcare Center, Inc. today.
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