Did you know there is a difference between hearing and listening? Hearing is simply the act of perceiving sound. It refers to the ear's ability to pick up sound and transmit the sound waves to the brain. It is a passive process that happens automatically. You "hear" in your sleep. It is even possible to hear someone speaking without understanding what they are saying. This is where the difference between "hearing" and "listening" is demonstrated. While hearing is passive, listening is active. Listening is the active process of interpreting what is heard.
Why is this important?
No one can predict from a hearing test how someone will listen. Two people with identical hearing loss may not listen the same and would therefore derive different benefits from hearing instruments. Why does this matter? How does an audiologist address "listening" issues? Check back next week for the answer!
For now, feel free to visit our website for answers.
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