Testing questions

[chris]

I have read on here about speech in noise test and real ear measurement and hearing in noise testing.
When should they be preformed? Now or after some adjustings. If I have these done should that make a noticeable difference in my hearing only if my aids are not set to the optimal settings? I like what I have so far but I want to make sure I have all I can get out of these new Centra aids

[Admin]

These tests, the HINT or Quick SIN test as well as speech mapping (if available) should be performed right away, to find the best settings possible for hearing and understanding, particularly in noisy environments.

Any hearing aid will sound fairly good in a quiet office, but can perform totally differently in a loud factory or restaurant.

Thus the HINT or Quick SIN can be used to simulate these noisy situations and see how well the user hears and understands in these noisy environments.

These tests measure the signal to noise ratio...the more negative the number, the better. Don't be dissappointed if the changes only show a 1 db improvement, as this equates to 10% or more in speech discrimination ability.

If I were a hearing aid wearer, I would certainly demand these tests, as it shows me how much help the new hearing aids are providing and reduces significantly the number of follow ups and adjustment appointments that are necessary.

In my practice, I schedule 2 follow-up visits. I rarely have to have anyone call in for an adjustment after the 2 follow-ups due to the testing protocol we have set in place.

Hope this helps you out.

[mainie]

Mine does not have the necesary equipment. I live in Sugar land, TX - where can I have the tests done?