Adaptation Management for Amplification

ABSTRACT

Most hearing losses are progressive in nature, yet treatment with amplification for the first-time user is an abrupt change to new, higher levels of ongoing sound stimulation. The ability of a hearing aid user to adapt successfully to a new set of hearing aids is dependent on the ability to accept these new listening levels. In a similar manner, a previous user of amplification also may show difficulties in adjustment to new devices if the sound processing or quality is significantly different. Adaptation management is the process by which the user is moved from a previous sound experience to a new experience gradually over time. In progressive steps, a variety of circuit settings are adjusted to change the performance of the devices to move from a sound picture more similar to the patient's current experience to a new sound picture that represents the new desired sound processing. Programmable circuitry has made the application of adaptation management a simple process.

KEYWORD

Hearing aids - compression - adaptation - loudness - discomfort - annoyance

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