The path to better hearing involves more than just getting hearing aids. After working with thousands of patients over the past decade, Dr. Kevin Ivory developed the ListeningBrain® Treatment Program, which produces a patient satisfaction rate above 98%. This comprehensive approach addresses the three key elements needed for successful hearing treatment.

Understanding Why Traditional Approaches Often Fall Short

Many patients come to us sharing similar experiences with hearing aids: "I only wear them when I go out" "I can't follow conversations in noisy places" "I bought hearing aids but don't wear them anymore" "I hear sounds but can't make out the words clearly"

These common challenges stem from an incomplete approach to hearing treatment. The national success rate for hearing aid users hovers around 60%, meaning that 40% of people who invest in hearing aids aren't satisfied with their results.

The Three Critical Components of ListeningBrain®

The ListeningBrain® Treatment Program is based on our understanding of neural plasticity - the brain's ability to form new connections throughout life. When hearing loss develops gradually, the brain adapts by reducing the neural pathways dedicated to processing certain sounds. Successfully treating hearing loss requires rebuilding these pathways systematically, which is why simply making sounds louder isn't enough.

1. Technology Matched to Your Brain and Lifestyle

Selecting appropriate hearing technology starts with understanding your specific hearing needs and daily activities. Rather than focusing solely on price points or basic amplification, we guide you toward hearing solutions that match your unique listening requirements.

We work with leading manufacturers including Oticon, ReSound, Starkey, Signia, Phonak, and Widex to provide options that deliver clear sound processing and optimal performance in the environments where you need it most. The technology serves as the foundation - but it's just the beginning.

2. Precise Programming and Verification

Many hearing care providers rely on manufacturer "first fit" settings, which use averaged estimates based on standard ear canal shapes and sizes. This approach is similar to an eye doctor letting you pick glasses without measuring your exact prescription.

At our practice, we use Real Ear Measurements (REM) to verify that your hearing aids are programmed precisely for your specific hearing loss and ear canal acoustics. This scientific verification process measures the exact sound levels reaching your eardrum, allowing us to optimize the settings for your unique needs.

3. Brain Retraining Process

This component sets the ListeningBrain® Treatment Program apart from standard hearing aid fittings. Traditional approaches often program hearing aids to their full prescription immediately, overwhelming new users with too much sound at once. This can lead to inconsistent device use and ultimately, dissatisfaction.

Our brain retraining process recognizes that your auditory system needs time to readjust after experiencing hearing loss. We start at comfortable sound levels that provide immediate communication benefits while allowing your brain to adapt gradually to the restored sound environment.

How the Brain Retraining Process Works

Initial Programming

Rather than maximizing amplification right away, we begin with settings that improve speech clarity while maintaining listening comfort. This allows you to experience better communication immediately without feeling overwhelmed by environmental sounds.

Gradual Adaptation

Over several weeks, we use specialized programming options to automatically and incrementally increase sound levels toward your optimal prescription. This careful progression helps your brain rebuild neural connections for processing sound naturally.

Building Daily Habits

This measured approach helps establish consistent hearing aid use. Our patients typically wear their devices around 12 hours per day, which is essential for maintaining the neural pathways needed for effective hearing.

Measuring Success Through Patient Outcomes

The effectiveness of the ListeningBrain® Treatment Program is reflected in our patient outcomes. While the national average for consistent hearing aid use is around 8 hours per day, our patients achieve an average of 12 hours daily wear time. This increased usage directly correlates with better speech understanding and overall satisfaction. By following our structured approach, patients report improved communication in challenging listening situations and greater confidence in social settings.

The Five Steps to Better Hearing

1. ListeningBrain® Evaluation

Our comprehensive evaluation goes beyond basic hearing testing. We measure your hearing thresholds and assess your brain's ability to process speech. This thorough assessment helps identify any underlying medical conditions and provides clear direction for treatment options.

2. ListeningBrain® Technology Selection

Based on your evaluation results, we recommend hearing technology specifically designed to address your hearing needs and cognitive processing requirements. Modern hearing aids do more than amplify - they help your brain separate speech from background noise and process sound more naturally.

3. Adaptation Period

We carefully manage the introduction of amplified sound to ensure successful adaptation. This structured approach prevents the common problem of users becoming overwhelmed and abandoning their hearing aids.

4. Scientific Verification

Using Real Ear Measurements, we verify that your hearing aids deliver the right amount of sound across all frequencies. This objective measurement confirms that speech sounds reach your ear at the proper levels for optimal understanding.

5. Ongoing Support and Personalization

Your hearing needs will continue evolving, and we maintain a long-term partnership to address these changes. Our treatment programs include regular service, cleaning, supplies, annual evaluations, and continuing support to maximize your hearing success.

The Importance of Consistent Follow-up Care

Regular follow-up appointments play a vital role in long-term success with hearing treatment. During these visits, we assess how you're adapting to your hearing aids, make any needed adjustments, and address new listening challenges that may arise. We perform routine maintenance to keep your devices working optimally and provide guidance on daily care and maintenance. These ongoing interactions help us fine-tune your hearing solution as your lifestyle and listening needs evolve. Plus, patients who maintain regular follow-up care report higher satisfaction rates and better outcomes with their hearing treatment.

Experience Better Hearing Through ListeningBrain®

If you've been frustrated with hearing aids in the past or are considering hearing treatment for the first time, we invite you to experience our comprehensive approach. Contact our office to schedule a ListeningBrain® evaluation with Dr. Ivory and learn how this proven process can help you achieve better hearing outcomes. Call (626) 963-7200 or visit our clinic at 130 West Route 66, Suite 210, in Glendora.