Hearing Assessment

The Assessment Process

The standard hearing test carried out in most audiological centres only measures whether you can or can’t hear a series of beeps and whistles through headphones. In the absence of anything better, this has been considered the gold standard and an essential part of the tests needed to identify the possible cause and location of hearing loss.

However, nowadays, we don’t regard this test as fit for purpose and, although we haven’t abandoned these older tests, we have compiled our own test protocols (using components designed from Australia to North America) so that we can measure how well speech (not a beep!) is heard and understood in quiet and noise; with both male and female voices and with varying accents. These real world tests are far more relevant than testing with tones alone.

There is a significant amount of evidence that confirms the relationship between hearing and cognition. If hearing levels are lower than we would expect we require our brain to draw more heavily on its cognitive resources to translate speech into meaningful language. This involves a significant amount of brain energy expended to aid communication. Our assessment unearths a greater understanding of this process and helps guide our choice of Treatment Plan for you.

What Happens at our Hearing, Listening and Communication Abilities Assessment?

Our initial appointments normally take around two hours:

• We begin by listening to your story. It’s also an opportunity for us to address any concerns you may have. You will have been asked to complete a questionnaire before you attend your appointment and we go through the answers together, explaining things as we go.
• Your ears are then examined using a video camera and pictures are stored digitally. This procedure is completely safe and painless. It’s important that ears are not blocked with wax as this could affect the accuracy of our tests. If there is too much wax, we are able to clear this by irrigation or micro suction although this can require oil to be used for a few days beforehand.
• A test is then carried out to see if the middle ear is working normally – this is a quick automatic, non evasive scan.

• Our complete Hearing, Listening and Communication Abilities Assessment takes place in a spacious air conditioned, sound proofed booth which, as you would expect, is utterly safe and painless.
• More than just a simple hearing test, we investigate how speech is heard and understood in a variety of different virtual environments using male and female voices, in quiet and in noise.
• Depending on the outcome of our tests we may suggest further evaluations and, in extreme cases, onward referral. This is not usually necessary.
• At the end of the test, we will fully explain and discuss the outcome as it’s important that you appreciate why you hear the way you do.
• If the use of hearing technology could be beneficial, we will discuss the varying types and advise on the best possible solution.
• We take into account hearing level, lifestyle and any personal preferences.
• We provide a detailed report with our recommendation for your Treatment Plan which we will post or email to you as you’ll want to consider our recommendations carefully in your own time, rather than be asked to make a decision there and then.
• If required, we will take impressions of your ears which are electronically scanned and then modelled on a computer.
• On acceptance of our recommendations, we will start preparing your Treatment Plan immediately. The next appointment is normally possible within two weeks.
• If required, fitting appointments last around 90 minutes during which we will professionally tune the hearing technology. We take great care to make sure that you feel confident and can easily operate and handle the your new hearing aids before you leave.
• We arrange convenient follow up appointments to ensure you are totally happy.
• Finally, you’ll be provided with the hearing technology for a period to assess at home and if you’re not satisfied in any way we can try alternative solutions or provide a refund.