What does the tone decay test measure?

The tone decay test is specifically designed to measure auditory fatigue, which is the phenomenon where the auditory system becomes less sensitive to sound due to prolonged exposure. In this test, a pure tone is presented to the listener, and the clinician monitors how long the individual can maintain this perception before their hearing ability diminishes. This decrease in perception can indicate issues related to the auditory system’s endurance and has clinical implications for diagnosing auditory processing or threshold shifts related to fatigue.

Understanding auditory fatigue is essential for hearing aid dispensers, as it can inform them about the intensity and duration of sound exposure that may be suitable for patients. Recognizing how individuals experience auditory fatigue allows practitioners to customize hearing aid programs and recommendations to prevent discomfort and optimize hearing experiences for users.