A Study on Fittings of Hearing Aids for Mild Hearing Loss

Abstract

We studied indications of hearing aids for 67 patients with mild (the average hearing level less than 40dB) hearing loss. 32 patients were indicated to use hearing aids. Those who have occupational needs and strong will were indicated to use hearing aids, regardless of age and hearing level. In analysis of electroacoustic characteristics of hearing aid, the most frequently used gains (averaged in 500, 1000, 2000Hz) were correlated to the average hearing level. When these gains were compared with gains calculated by half gain method, they were smaller than half gains in most cases. As the average hearing level increased, the suitable maximum power output level (averaged in 500, 1000, 2000Hz) was accordingly increased. However, no relation was found between the maximum power output levels and uncomfatable loudness levels.