Behind the scenes: creating personalized audio materials for people with sensitive hearing

 

For individuals with hypersensitive hearing, finding the right auditory environment can be life-changing. At Intelisten, we have developed a method to prepare personalized audio materials remotely—without ever needing to meet in person.

Here’s how we do it.

Years of research behind our approach

Over the past 15 years, we have collected data on the frequencies that most commonly cause discomfort for individuals with sensitive hearing. This extensive knowledge has been condensed into our online questionnaire, allowing us to accurately assess a person’s unique hearing sensitivities.

We developed this method for two main reasons:

1. Standard audiograms often lack precision. Traditional audiological tests measure hearing ability in octave steps, meaning they can miss hypersensitivity at in-between frequencies. For example, someone might be highly sensitive to 900 Hz (a frequency similar to a baby’s cry), while having no issues with nearby frequencies. A standard audiogram wouldn’t detect this sensitivity, whereas our online assessment provides a much more detailed frequency profile.

2. Many people cannot access in-person audiological testing. Whether due to geographical limitations, age (e.g., very young children who cannot fully cooperate during tests), or other constraints, many individuals cannot get a traditional hearing test. The pandemic further highlighted the importance of remote solutions, reinforcing our shift toward online assessments. Since adopting this approach, the effectiveness of Intelisten training has remained unchanged.

How we work

When someone completes our questionnaire, their responses allow our experts to build a detailed profile of their hearing. We analyze whether auditory sensitivity might be contributing to their challenges.

• If we determine that sensitivity is a likely cause, we send an email with our findings and details about personalized auditory training options.
• If results are unclear, we follow up via email for further clarification.

Once the assessment is complete, we begin creating a customized filtered audio program tailored to the individual’s specific needs. This ensures that every person receives an auditory training experience uniquely suited to their sensitivity profile — without ever needing to visit an audiology clinic.

By leveraging years of research and modern technology, we can offer effective, personalized solutions to those with hypersensitive hearing — no matter where they are.