ABSTRACT
Purpose
To compare the targets prescribed by the non-linear NAL with the real ear aided response - REAR obtained through probe microphone in the setting of effective use according to the degree of hearing loss.
Methods
67 experienced hearing aid users participated in the study. All were reassessed when attending follow-up sessions. At that moment, they were asked whether they had any complaints with respect to the amplification. An audiological evaluation was performed, the hours of use of the device were recorded and the new probe microphone measurement was taken.
Results
The percentage of ears with REAR within ± 10dB of the prescriptive target was verified. It was observed that 80% of the hearing aids of all groups reached the analyzed range, with the exception of the moderate hearing loss group. We also performed the analysis of the percentage of ears whose hearing aid response was within ± 5 dB for the low frequencies and ± 8 dB for the high frequencies, and it was observed that less than 80% of the adjustments reached this range. Confidence intervals were constructed to verify the preference fit to target of experienced users.
Conclusion
The range of ±10dB proves to be the users’ preference. For experienced users, it is suggested that the adaptation phase be found in the range of ±3 in the low and medium frequencies and ±7 in the high frequency region
Keywords:
Adult; Hearing loss; Hearing aids; Speech perception; Outcome assessment