Around 48 million Americans live with hearing loss. In order to manage and improve a patient’s hearing, audiologists conduct hearing tests and may recommend hearing aids or other hearing accessories. Another essential tool in this process is the hearing loss simulator, which will not only give patients an idea of amplified hearing but will also give their loved ones a better sense of what impaired hearing sounds like. However, many are unsure of how a hearing loss simulator works. Below, learn more about this technology and how it can help. 

What Is a Hearing Loss Simulator?

A hearing loss simulator employs audio files to simulate what a person with hearing loss may hear in different contexts, such as in a train station, at a restaurant, or on the phone. It enables you to listen to what’s considered normal hearing, mild hearing loss, and moderate hearing loss. 

Depending on the degree of hearing loss, a person may miss specific sounds and pitches. For example, in speech, a person with hearing loss may miss consonant sounds like P, K, F, and H. Also, higher-pitched voices and sounds are hard to hear, and background noise makes hearing more challenging. The hearing loss simulator allows for specific scenarios.

What Are Its Benefits?

The simulator will enable loved ones to hear what it’s like for a hearing-impaired relative to hear with and without a hearing aid. As a result, they will have a better understanding of how loud they should speak, and the importance of speaking clearly and making sure their lips are visible for lipreading. 

For those who are hearing impaired, the simulator will demonstrate what amplification will be like, and what the best settings for a hearing aid would be. Alternatively, you can show people who listen to their music too loudly, or who are exposed to noisy environments at work, what their hearing will be like in the future if they don't change their habits or take precautions. 

If you’re worried about your hearing and looking for solutions, go to the audiologists at R.W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology Center in Hermitage, PA. For nearly five decades, their experienced team has been providing quality care, including hearing tests, video otoscopy, hearing loss simulation, hearing aids, and listening devices. They also provide hearing aid maintenance and repairs and can recommend hearing loss support groups. Protect your hearing by calling (724) 551-0011 to schedule your free consultation today. Learn more about their range of hearing services online.