Speech perception processes and fitting of hearing aids

A model of speech perception is modified to take into account the adaptational factors involved in speech perception and learning. In connection with fitting of hearing aids, the model permits a description and identification of factors influencing the immediate and long-term benefits of a hearing aid. Various aspects of the model in connection with the rehabilitation process using hearing aids are considered and a new step-wise adjusting procedure for the assessment of hearing aids is proposed. Our observations imply that speech audiometry is a poor indicator of the long-term benefit of a hearing aid.