Real Ear Measurements: Why They're Essential for Optimal Hearing Aid Performance

Getting the most out of your hearing aids starts with a proper fit. At La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology, we understand that Real Ear Measurements (REMs) are essential when fitting hearing aids.

Real Ear Measurements, also known as probe microphone measurements or Real Ear Verification, are a scientific method used to verify and adjust the performance of hearing aids. This process involves placing a thin probe microphone in the ear canal alongside the hearing aid to measure the exact sound levels being delivered to the eardrum.

During the measurement, various speech samples and other sounds are played, allowing the audiologist to see precisely how the hearing aid is performing in the individual's ear. This real-time data is then used to make precise adjustments to the hearing aid's programming, ensuring that it's providing the right amount of amplification across all frequencies.

Why Are Real Ear Measurements Important?

1. Personalized Fitting

Each person's ear canal possesses distinctive dimensions and contours, making it one-of-a-kind. These variations significantly influence how sound traverses the ear canal, impacting the performance of hearing aids. Real Ear Measurements recognize these variations, enabling a highly personalized fitting process specifically designed for your unique ear anatomy. This approach ensures that the hearing aid functions optimally, delivering exceptional sound quality and clarity.

2. Accuracy in Amplification

In the absence of Real Ear Measurements (REMs), audiologists are compelled to rely on generalized ear canal acoustics while programming hearing aids. This "one-size-fits-all" approach may result in over-amplification or insufficient amplification in specific frequency ranges. REMs, on the other hand, guarantee that the hearing aid delivers the precise level of amplification prescribed for your unique hearing loss at each frequency.

3. Improved Speech Understanding

By leveraging Real Ear Measurements, hearing aids can precisely amplify speech sounds, facilitating enhanced speech comprehension, especially in challenging listening environments. This breakthrough enables significant strides in communication, leading to a markedly improved quality of life for individuals reliant on hearing aids.

4. Reduced Need for Follow-up Adjustments

By utilizing Real Ear Measurements during the fitting process of hearing aids, the accuracy of the initial fit is enhanced, resulting in higher satisfaction levels from the onset. Consequently, the requirement for frequent follow-up appointments for adjustments is often diminished.

5. Objective Verification

Real Ear Measurements provide objective data about how the hearing aid is performing. This takes the guesswork out of the fitting process and allows both the audiologist and the patient to see concrete evidence of the hearing aid's performance.

The Benefits of Real Ear Measurements

Research has consistently shown that hearing aid fittings using Real Ear Measurements result in:

1. Superior outcomes
2. Higher patient satisfaction
3. Higher long-term benefit and usage
4. Improved aided benefit both in quiet and in noisy environments

These benefits translate into real-world improvements for hearing aid users. Patients often report better speech understanding, increased comfort with their hearing aids, and a more natural listening experience.

Why Dr. Ivory Prioritizes Real Ear Measurements

At La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology, Dr. Kevin Ivory is committed to providing evidence-based care that yields the best possible outcomes for his patients. That's why he routinely uses Real Ear Measurements when fitting hearing aids.

As Dr. Ivory explains, "Without performing Real-Ear Measurements, fitting a hearing aid is complete guesswork–it might be comparable to getting fit with a pair of prescription glasses, but the optometrist 'guessed' the prescription of your vision and crafted the frames based on that 'guess.'"

Dr. Ivory is among the less than 30% of hearing care providers who routinely use Real Ear Measurements when programming hearing aids. This commitment to best practices sets La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology apart and contributes to superior outcomes for patients.

Real Ear Measurements and Different Hearing Aid Brands

At La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology, we work with all major hearing aid manufacturers, including Oticon, ReSound, Starkey, Signia, Phonak, Widex, and others. Regardless of the brand or model of hearing aid you choose, Real Ear Measurements can be used to optimize its performance.

Each hearing aid manufacturer may have slightly different prescriptive targets or fitting algorithms, but the principles of Real Ear Measurement remain the same. This versatility ensures that you get the best performance from your hearing aids, regardless of the brand you prefer.

Common Misconceptions About Real Ear Measurements

Despite their importance, there are some misconceptions about Real Ear Measurements that we'd like to address:

1. "They're unnecessary if the hearing aid is high-end": Even the most advanced hearing aids benefit from Real Ear Measurements. The technology in the hearing aid is only as good as its programming.
2. "They're only needed for severe hearing loss": Real Ear Measurements are beneficial for all degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound.
3. "They're uncomfortable or time-consuming": The process is quick, painless, and adds significant value to the fitting process.
4. "They're only needed for the initial fitting": While crucial for the initial fitting, Real Ear Measurements can also be valuable during follow-up appointments to ensure continued optimal performance.

Real Ear Measurements for Existing Hearing Aid Users

If you already have hearing aids that were fitted elsewhere without Real Ear Measurements, don't worry. Dr. Ivory can perform Real Ear Measurements on your current devices to see how they can be programmed better. This is just another way that we can maximize your performance with hearing aids and help improve your quality of life through better hearing outcomes.

The La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology Difference

At La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology, we prioritize delivering exceptional care to our patients. Our application of Real Ear Measurements exemplifies our dedication to leveraging evidence-based practices for superior outcomes.

Dr. Kevin Ivory's proficiency in Real Ear Measurements, coupled with his commitment to patient education and satisfaction, ensures you receive the most effective hearing solution tailored to your needs. We firmly believe that everyone deserves optimal hearing, and Real Ear Measurements play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.

Whether you are considering hearing aids for the first time or seeking to enhance the performance of your current devices, experience the transformative impact of Real Ear Measurements. Contact La Cañada Hearing Aids & Audiology today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ivory and embark on your journey towards improved hearing.