Real Ear Measurement (REM) is an extra step in hearing aid fitting used to make sure your hearing aids work just right for you. It measures how sound travels through your ears while wearing hearing aids. Everyone’s ears are different, so REM helps adjust the settings for the best sound quality.
This test ensures your hearing aids are personalized to your unique needs. It’s like tailoring clothes to fit your body—REM makes sure your hearing aids fit your ears perfectly, too!
Why Do We Use Real Ear Measurement?
REM is a big part of making hearing aids work well. Without it, your hearing aids might not be as clear or comfortable. By measuring sound inside your ears, REM helps audiologists:
- Check if the hearing aids are amplifying sounds correctly.
- Adjust the devices to match your hearing levels.
- Make sure loud sounds aren’t uncomfortable.
Using REM gives you the best chance of hearing conversations, music, and other sounds clearly and naturally.
How Does Real Ear Measurement Work?
During REM, the audiologist places a tiny microphone (probe) in your ear. This microphone measures how sounds from the hearing aid travel inside your ear canal.
Here’s what happens:
- Calibration: The audiologist sets up the microphone and hearing aid to ensure accurate testing.
- Sound Testing: The audiologist plays sounds while you wear the hearing aids.
- Adjustment: Using the results, the audiologist fine-tunes your hearing aids to make them just right for you.
This process is quick, safe, and painless, but it makes a huge difference in how well your hearing aids work.
Why Are Real Ear Measurements Necessary?
Real Ear Measurement is essential because:
- Hearing aids without REM might not give you the sound quality you need.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids don’t offer this level of customization.
- Everyone’s ears are unique, and REM ensures your hearing aids are adjusted just for you.
If you’ve tried hearing aids before and weren’t happy, it might be because REM wasn’t done. At our clinic, we include REM in every fitting to make sure you get the best results.
Real Ear Measurement vs. Automatic Programming
Many hearing aids come with a “Manufacturer’s First Fit,” which sets the device to average settings. But these generic settings might not match your ears.
Automatic programming uses basic settings, while REM is like having a custom-made pair of glasses. It considers your unique ear shape and hearing needs. This means better clarity, comfort, and satisfaction with your hearing aids.
Real Ear Measurement Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Real Ear Measurement?
Real Ear Measurement helps ensure your hearing aids are adjusted to fit your unique hearing needs. It measures how sound moves inside your ear and fine-tunes the hearing aids for the best clarity and comfort.
Is Real Ear Measurement painful?
Not at all! The process is completely safe and painless. A tiny microphone is placed in your ear, and sounds are tested to measure how your hearing aids work.
How long does Real Ear Measurement take?
The test is quick and usually takes about 15–30 minutes. It’s a small time investment for a big improvement in hearing quality.
Can I skip Real Ear Measurement if my hearing aids seem fine?
Skipping REM might mean your hearing aids aren’t working as well as they could. Even if they seem fine, REM ensures they’re providing the most accurate sound for your ears.
Do all audiology clinics offer Real Ear Measurement?
Unfortunately, not all clinics use REM. That’s why it’s important to choose a clinic that offers this gold-standard service to ensure the best results for your hearing aids. Audiologists at Auglaize Audiology practice real ear measurements as part of our hearing aid fitting process.
Can over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids benefit from Real Ear Measurement?
OTC hearing aids are pre-set and don’t allow for the same level of adjustment as custom hearing aids. REM is not typically used for OTC devices, which can make them less effective for many people.
Real Ear Measurement and Your Hearing Success
At our clinic, we believe Real Ear Measurement is the gold standard for hearing aid fittings. By using REM, we make sure your hearing aids give you the best possible sound experience.
If you want hearing aids that feel natural and work perfectly for your ears, schedule an appointment with us today!
Our friendly audiologists are here to help you hear better and enjoy life to the fullest.
