What change in fittings might require a Real Ear Measurement?

Real Ear Measurement (REM) is an essential procedure used to ensure that a hearing aid is providing the appropriate amplification as intended for the user. It measures the sound levels reaching the eardrum and compares them to the prescribed fitting target.

Changing from an open to a closed dome significantly alters the way sound is transmitted into the ear canal. Open domes allow more natural sound from the environment to mix with the amplified sound, while closed domes can create a more sealed environment, affecting both the amplification and sound quality. This change can result in different acoustic properties, which can influence the hearing aid's overall performance and how well it meets the individual’s hearing loss prescription.

In such cases, it is critical to run a Real Ear Measurement to ensure the new fitting is appropriate and that the amplified sound levels are optimized for the user's needs. Proper adjustments based on REM can lead to improved hearing outcomes and overall satisfaction with the device.

Other changes, such as battery replacement, updating software settings, or replacing the outer casing, do not fundamentally alter the way sound interacts with the ear canal or its amplification characteristics. Therefore, they do not typically necessitate a Real Ear Measurement.