Hearing device fitting concept for slight hearing loss

Abstract

The concept of fitting hearing devices (aids) for slight hearing loss is introduced, based on the current status of advances in hearing device technologies. Continual and innovative developments of new hearing devices are being witnessed with advances in digital signal processing technology. With the advent of the open fitting technology, patients with only slight hearing loss have the option of using a hearing device without the problems of occlusion or low tone gain excess. However, there is still an information gap, and it would appear that unadapted prescriptions by ENT doctors or underspecified open style hearing devices just with a big vent are being distributed by dealers of hearing aids. In this paper, we explain the potential merits and limitations of fitting hearing devices for persons with only slight hearing loss. Also described are the prerequisites of a proper prescription for a hearing device.