Communication Sciences and Disorders Publications
Fit-to-targets for the desired sensation level version 5.0a hearing aid prescription method for children
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2017
Journal
American Journal of Audiology
Volume
26
Issue
3
First Page
251
Last Page
258
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1044/2017_AJA-16-0054
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the range of fit to Desired Sensation Level version 5.0 (DSL v5.0) targets in pediatric practice environments. Results will be used in the future to develop clinical-aided speech intelligibility index typical performance data. Method: Clinical partners collected data from 161 final hearing aid settings for children aged ≤ 10 years. Measured data were obtained by performing 2-cm coupler-simulated real-ear measurements using the DSL v5.0 implementation on the Audioscan VF-1 (Etymonic Design Inc., Dorchester, ON, Canada) for soft, average, and loud speech inputs and maximum hearing aid output levels. Results: Fittings were within ± 5-dB root-mean-square (RMS) error of target for 77%, 80%, and 82% of fittings for the soft, medium, and loud speech test levels, respectively. Aided maximum power output measures were within ± 5-dB RMS error in 72% of cases. Degree of hearing loss, test frequency, and frequency by test level were significant factors in deviation from target. The range of aided speech intelligibility index values exhibited a strong correlation with the hearing levels of the children tested. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that typical hearing aid fittings for children can be achieved within ± 5-dB RMS error of the DSL v5.0 target. Greater target deviations were observed at extreme frequencies and as the severity of hearing loss increased. 3
