Functional Communication Needs Assessment
What to Expect:
Our 13-Step Functional Communication Needs Assessment
#1
All About You
Before your appointment, we’ll ask you to complete several questionnaires using our secure, HIPAA-compliant online portal.
Your medical history is crucial, as hearing is closely tied to cognition, cardiovascular function, diabetes, balance, and more. We’ll also review any medications that may affect hearing or cause tinnitus.
#2
All About Your Connections
Hearing loss often affects those around you before you even notice it. That’s why we encourage you to bring a loved one to your appointment.
We want to understand how hearing challenges impact your daily life and relationships—because better hearing is about staying connected.
#3
When You Arrive
For your safety, we take precautions, including health screenings and sanitation measures. If you haven’t completed your intake forms online, we’ll assist you in filling them out before your appointment begins.
#4
Meet the Doctor
Once in a private consultation room, your Doctor of Audiology will discuss your medical history, family history, medications, occupation, and lifestyle.
We’ll use your pre-evaluation questionnaire to explore the struggles you’re experiencing and your goals for better hearing.
#5
Examination of Your Ears
Using an otoscope, we’ll inspect your ear canals for anything that may be blocking sound, like earwax buildup. If necessary, we’ll remove any obstructions using specialized tools, suction, or irrigation.
#6
Cognitive Screening
Understanding speech in background noise involves more than just your ears—it’s a cognitive process. Recent research suggests treating hearing loss may slow or even reverse aspects of cognitive decline.
Our cognitive screening helps us tailor a hearing treatment plan that supports both your ears and your brain.
#7
Hearing Test
The basic hearing test determines the type and degree of hearing loss and identifies whether any conditions require medical intervention.
You’ll sit in a soundproof booth, wearing single-use foam earphones, and respond to a series of beeps at various pitches.
#8
Sound Tolerance Test
After finding the softest sounds you can hear, we assess your sound preferences with louder tones and speech.
This test helps us understand your comfort levels in noisy situations, guiding the selection and programming of your hearing technology.
#9
Word Recognition Test
We measure how well you understand words at a comfortable volume in quiet conditions, helping us assess how your brain processes speech.
#10
Hearing in Noise Test
This test simulates real-world environments by presenting recorded sentences alongside background noise.
It evaluates how well you understand speech when competing sounds are present, helping us determine the best hearing solutions for your lifestyle.
#11
Real-World Environmental Data Collection
We fit and prescribe hearing aids tailored to your specific hearing loss and optimized for speech clarity. To ensure the best results, we ask you to wear these devices in your everyday listening environments—putting them to the test in the situations where you struggle most.
Over 1-2 weeks, the sampling devices will:
Gather objective data about your real-world sound environments
Track your volume control behaviors, helping us fine-tune your settings
Give you a real-life experience of how hearing aids improve clarity and reduce listening effort
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by the difference! This sampling period also allows you to truly experience the benefits of well-fitted hearing technology before making a long-term commitment.
#12
Aided Speech in Noise Testing
After 1-2 weeks of sound integration, you’ll return to the booth for a repeat of the Hearing in Noise Test. You’ll likely be pleased to see improved word recognition and reduced listening effort!
#13
Development of Your "Hear for Life" Treatment Plan
After discussing your results of the objective data from the devices from the Real-World Environmental Data Collection and your real-world experiences, we collaborate with you to develop a personalized “Hear for Life” Treatment Plan.
This includes:
The Five Keys Communication auditory rehab program
Prescription hearing aid recommendations based on your hearing loss, needs, and lifestyle
A customized maintenance plan for long-term hearing health
We are with you every step of the way, adjusting your plan as needed to keep up with changes in your hearing, health, and lifestyle over time.
Why Choose Longmont Hearing and Tinnitus Center?
Our Comprehensive 13-Step “Hear for Life” Functional Communication Needs Assessment is designed to go beyond a basic hearing test—ensuring that your hearing, brain function, and overall communication abilities are fully evaluated. If you want the most thorough assessment of your hearing and cognitive listening ability, schedule your ‘Hear for Life’ Functional Communication Needs Assessment with Longmont Hearing and Tinnitus Center today!
