Adult Testing

Filling The Sound Void

Do you often hear people talking but simply have difficulty understanding them?
Do you sometimes struggle to hear clearly in background noise?
Do you occasionally have trouble following the conversation in small groups?
Do you find it challenging to explain your hearing situation to others?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may be experiencing the perception of "Sound Voids". The term "Sound Void" was created to explain the "gaps" that some individuals say they experience in their day-to-day listening lives. The definition of a Sound Void (noun) is:

A moment lacking clarity in hearing or understanding or an empty space in one’s left caused by the absence of sound clarity.

"Sound Voids" usually occur in specific listening situations where an individual’s hearing loss does not permit them to detect or understand important sound and speech cues. Individuals often find that

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The Evaluation Process

The effects of hearing loss and the perception of "Sound Voids" can be minimized if your problem is correctly diagnosed, you receive the right type of treatment, and you and your hearing care professional are committed to solving the problem. The evaluation process is divided into four parts:

• STEP ONE: THE INTERVIEW - The purpose of step oneis to determine the nature of your concern and to uncover any specific areas that may require further attention. Your professional will ask a series of questions, such as history of hearing loss, noise exposure, or illness.
• STEP TWO: THE EXAMINATION - The examination portion will determine whether the perception of "Sound Voids" you are experiencing could be caused by an obstruction or damage to the ear canal or ear drum. Your professional will use a special instrument called a Video Otoscope to inspect the ear.
• STEP THREE: THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS - The diagnostic process will include a series of specialized tests to assess your needs. The entire auditory system will be measured and evaluated to determine the exact nature of your hearing loss.
• STEP FOUR: TREATMENT OPTIONS - This final part is comprised of either a technology solution or in a few instances a medical referral. The technology solution could be a recommendation for hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or a combination of both.