Many people use the words ‘speech’, ‘language’, and ‘communication’ somewhat interchangeably.
Communication is the broadest of these three terms. Communication occurs any time a message is somehow conveyed from one person to another whether that’s verbally or through some other means.
Speech is the most specific and narrowly defined term. Speech occurs when we use verbal words to communicate with others.
Language involves using a consistent and agreed-upon set of symbols to convey a message to another person who understands what those predefined symbols mean.
Hearing plays a big part in communication, speech, and language. Audiologists perform hearing tests to get a proper assessment of an individual’s hearing capabilities.
The process of hearing and communication seems simple enough on the surface: we hear a sound, we recognize the sound, and we react to the sound. In reality, hearing is a complex process that requires the coordination of a number of different mechanisms within our ears and brains.
Hearing Test: What To Expect
The testing we perform involves several components. One of these parts includes finding the softest sounds you can hear (hearing thresholds) across a broad pitch range. We measure the loudness of sound in decibels (dB). In our test battery we present tones in a variety of frequencies (pitches) at different intensity (volume) levels. Once your softest response levels are determined, we establish these as your hearing thresholds.
In addition to pure tone testing, we also assess your ability to hear speech. Speech testing is assessed in a threshold level task, where we determine the softest level you can discern speech. Speech recognition testing is also performed at a volume loud enough for you to hear and repeat back a series of words.
From your responses, we gain an overall picture of your hearing threshold levels across the range of frequencies that correspond closely to the region in which speech occurs.
Common Hearing Level Classifications (Degree of Hearing Loss)
- Normal, –10dB to 25dB
- Mild, 26dB to 40dB
- Moderate, 41dB to 55dB
- Moderately Severe, 56dB to 70dB
- Severe, 71dB to 90dB
- Profound, 91dB+
Comprehensive Hearing Exams
At Audiology & Speech Solutions, we perform comprehensive hearing exams to ensure we get a complete picture of your hearing health. This includes an assessment of all functions of the ear including:
- Otoscopic examination to check for excessive earwax
- Middle ear assessments to ensure there is no fluid or other disorder of this area of the ear
- Comprehensive hearing testing to determine the type and severity of hearing loss
- Pediatric audiological evaluation for early detection and intervention
- Speech testing to validate results and determine the clarity of speech and possible candidacy for hearing aids
- Complete and thorough counseling to ensure all results are clear and understood by all involved.
Audiology and Speech Solutions: Hearing Tests in Rye, NY
Getting a hearing test regularly is highly recommended, especially for individuals who are aging or are exposed to loud noises. Since hearing loss occurs gradually for most people, getting a regular hearing test is essential to detect any signs of hearing loss early which can prevent it from getting worse.
Our clinic offers various hearing tests performed by experienced and well-trained audiologists in Rye, NY. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!