Four FAQs About Hearing Aid Fittings

So you’ve had a hearing test and you’ve identified that you’ve got some level of hearing loss. Next will be a few appointments and meetings with audiologist to determine how you’re going to treat it. In most cases, you’ll be required to get a hearing aid and this will require a fitting which can be daunting if it’s your first time hearing about it. To make things a little easier for you, we’ve put together four commonly asked questions about hearing aid fittings to hopefully make things easier to understand for you.

1. What happens at a hearing aid fitting?

During a hearing aid fitting, your audiologist will run a series of tests to verify that your hearing aids are working correctly and providing the right amount of amplification for your hearing needs. Such tests often involve playing a series of sounds until the noise becomes uncomfortably loud for your ears. Based on the tests, your audiologist will adjust the settings on your hearing aids so that they best fit your needs.

2. How long does a hearing aid fitting usually take?

A hearing aid fitting usually takes around an hour due to the many tests involved. However, they can be as quick as 45 minutes if there aren’t many adjustments required.

3. What will I learn during a hearing aid fitting?

A hearing aid fitting usually involves a lot of learning. Most of the things you learn will relate to maintenance of your hearing aids, such as how to clean them properly, how to store them away when they’re not in use and how to wear the device properly. Another thing you’ll learn is how to cope with the hearing aid itself. Many people underestimate just how long it takes to become adjusted to hearing aids because it can take a while for the brain to get used to hearing certain sounds again. As a result, it’s important to try and remember all of the information at your hearing aid fitting.

4. Do I need to return to my audiologist?

In most cases, yes. Small adjustments may be required from time to time in order to finely tune your hearing aids. Some people find that their hearing aids grow uncomfortable over time and they’ll want to change them or switch the type of hearing aid they want. Your audiologist may even schedule you for a follow-up appointment just to check how you’re getting along with your hearing aids.

A hearing aid fitting is a straightforward appointment with your audiologist. While it can take quite a while to finish, it’s a necessary procedure if you want the best care for your hearing.