Real Ear Measurement (REM) represents a scientific approach to hearing aid programming that ensures you receive the exact amplification your hearing loss requires. At Doctors Hearing, we use this precise measurement technique during our fittings to achieve the most accurate results for each patient, leading to better hearing outcomes and increased satisfaction with hearing aids.

Understanding Real Ear Measurement

Real Ear Measurement involves placing a tiny microphone in your ear canal while wearing your hearing aids. This allows us to measure the actual sound levels reaching your eardrum and compare them to your specific hearing loss prescription. By accounting for your unique ear canal shape and size, we can make precise adjustments to optimize your hearing aids' performance and deliver sound exactly as intended by the manufacturer.

Many hearing aid fittings rely on computer software predictions based on average ear canal measurements. These predictions cannot account for individual differences in ear canal size, shape, or how your eardrum reflects sound. Without REM verification, providers often need to rely more heavily on patient feedback, which may not accurately reflect optimal amplification targets. This can lead to suboptimal hearing aid performance and reduced user satisfaction.

The Measurement Process

During your REM fitting, we first examine your ear canal without a hearing aid to establish your natural ear canal acoustics. Then, we measure the sound levels with your hearing aids in place. This two-step process lets us account for your ear canal's unique properties and guides our programming decisions. The measurements help us understand exactly how sound travels through your ear canal and reaches your eardrum, allowing for truly personalized programming.

Real World Benefits

Real Ear Measurement offers several significant advantages:

• Verifies proper amplification across all frequency ranges
• Matches hearing aids exactly to your prescription requirements
• Reduces the need for multiple follow-up adjustments
• Improves speech understanding in challenging environments
• Provides consistent results between both ears
• Maximizes your investment in better hearing
• Reduces listening fatigue through proper sound delivery
• Enhances the performance of noise reduction features
• Optimizes directional microphone benefits

Modern Hearing Aid Technology

Today's advanced hearing aids benefit significantly from precise REM verification. The Starkey Genesis AI offers sophisticated sound processing with millions of automatic adjustments and fitness tracking capabilities. The ReSound Nexia features advanced directional systems for improved hearing in noise and pioneering Auracast broadcast audio technology. The Phonak Infinio uses AI-based technology for enhanced clarity and sophisticated speech processing. The Oticon Intent incorporates 4D sensor technology for adaptive sound settings based on movement and environment. The Widex Moment Sheer focuses on natural sound reproduction with advanced AI customization, while the Signia IX provides real-time conversation enhancement through dual processing.

Real Ear Measurement ensures these sophisticated features perform optimally for your specific hearing needs and helps verify that advanced technologies work as intended in your unique ear canal.

Research Supports REM

Studies show that patients fitted with Real Ear Measurement experience better speech understanding and higher satisfaction rates. Users adapt more quickly to their hearing aids and wear them more consistently. This leads to improved outcomes, particularly in challenging listening situations like restaurants or group conversations. Research indicates that REM-verified fittings result in fewer return visits for adjustments and greater long-term success with hearing aids.

What to Expect During Your REM Fitting

The REM process is comfortable and non-invasive, typically taking 15-30 minutes. You'll hear various sounds while we measure your hearing aids' output. We test performance with different sound inputs, including speech, music, and background noise, documenting all results for future reference. This comprehensive testing ensures your hearing aids perform well across all listening environments you encounter in daily life.

Long-Term Care

We continue using REM during follow-up appointments to verify your hearing aids maintain optimal performance. As your hearing needs change, we can make precise adjustments based on new measurements. This ongoing verification helps maintain the effectiveness of your devices over time and ensures you continue receiving maximum benefit from your hearing aids. Regular REM verification also helps us track any changes in your hearing and make proactive adjustments when needed.

Professional Expertise

Our audiologist, Dr. Jill Diesman, brings extensive experience in Real Ear Measurement to every fitting. Her doctorate in audiology and ongoing training in the latest verification methods ensures you receive the highest standard of care. This expertise allows us to maximize the benefits of today's sophisticated hearing aid technology and provide truly personalized hearing solutions.

Schedule Your Professional Fitting Today

If you're considering hearing aids or want to optimize your current devices, experience the difference Real Ear Measurement can make. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jill Diesman. Our commitment to using advanced verification methods, combined with our expertise in the latest hearing aid technology, helps ensure you receive maximum benefit from your hearing investment and achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.