The 5 phases of communication decline

Phase 1 – Sensitivity to sound

The standard Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) hearing test is used to assess any decline in your sensitivity to sound.

Phase 2 – Speech discrimination in quiet

Free Field Word Recognition Tests are presented through a calibrated loud speaker, to assess any decline in your speech recognition.

Phase 3 – Speech discrimination in noise

A special calibrated Speech in Noise test is used to measure what level speech needs to be, relative to all other competing sounds, for you to be able to follow a conversation. This is the most commonly reported and most important area of communication difficulty for most patients.

Phase 4 – Comfort or tolerance to background noise

The Acceptable Noise Level (ANL) test measures at what level you find noise annoying relative to a conversation at a comfortable volume. This assesses any decline in acceptable noise levels.

Phase 5 – Non response to amplification

The audiologist will then program a hearing solution and apply that hearing correction to your ears. An Aided Free Field Word Recognition test is used to assess the potential for improvement and design your rehabilitation pathway.

Using these five different assessment tools can identify how far any damage to your auditory system has progressed and look at the impact on your ability to communicate. After the assessment you will be given a full explanation of the results to ensure you fully understand the nature of your hearing difficulties and its effects.

The audiologist will then give advice on options available and what tailored hearing solution is right for you. As part of the consultation the audiologist can also give you a demonstration of your ideal hearing solution based on technology and best value. Not all national hearing aid companies offer all these tests as a standard part of their service. You can be confident you are getting the very best assessment available to you.