What is the purpose of output limitation in hearing aids?

The purpose of output limitation in hearing aids is primarily to prevent sound from exceeding the patient's loudness discomfort level (LDL). This is crucial for ensuring comfort and safety for the user, as sounds that are too loud can cause discomfort or even pain, especially for individuals with hearing loss who may have a lower tolerance for loud sounds. By implementing output limitation, the hearing aid can automatically adjust its amplification to stay within a range that is acceptable for the user, thus providing effective amplification without reaching levels that could be harmful or uncomfortable.

The other options do not align with the primary function of output limitation. While enhancing soft sounds is an important aspect of hearing aid functionality, it does not directly relate to the concept of output limitation. Similarly, increasing maximum power output can actually conflict with the intention behind limiting output levels, as it could lead to exceeding the LDL. Reducing battery consumption, while a practical concern, is not the primary aim of output limitation; instead, it focuses on maintaining safe and comfortable sound levels for the user.