Common FAQs About a Hearing Aid Fitting

A hearing aid fitting can sound like a really daunting process. After all, you’ve likely just gone through a number of different tests and examinations by your audiologist, so you have all the reason to feel anxious about the appointment where you finally get to see and use your hearing aids for the first time.

So in this article, we’re going to answer a few of the most commonly asked questions regarding hearing aid fittings. This should help you ease into the fitting process and also clear up any misunderstandings or concerns that you might have.

1. What exactly happens at a hearing aid fitting?

In most cases, you’ll be getting to see your hearing aids for the first time. The fitting process means that your audiologist will ask you to wear them to ensure they are the right fit. Any discomfort will be dealt with and if they’re not the right hearing aids for you, your audiologist will alter or replace them. You’ll also learn about hearing aids, how they work, the features yours comes with, how to control them and your audiologist will also help change any settings to ensure you get the best quality of sound.

2. Are there more tests that I need to take?

This depends from audiologist to audiologist. They will likely perform a couple more short tests to ensure that nothing has changed from your previous appointment so they can make sure that your hearing aids will be the perfect fit your ears.

3. Should I ask questions during the fitting?

Absolutely! If you have any questions on your mind regarding hearing aids, their usage or even your hearing loss, then the fitting appointment is the best time to ask. Here are a couple of questions that you may want to consider:

• How do I clean my hearing aids?
• What happens if I break or lose my hearing aids?
• Do you have an emergency contact number?
• Do you have any tips for using hearing aids?
• What should I do if I don’t like my hearing aids?

4. Are there follow-up appointments?

Yes. You will need to have a follow-up appointment so that your audiologist gets an idea of how you’re coping with both the hearing aids and your hearing loss. You’ll get an opportunity to ask more questions and you’ll also be given the opportunity to change the settings or even swap your hearing aids out for an entirely different device if you want. The follow-up appointment is vital for helping you get the most out of your hearing aids, so make sure one is booked at the end of your fitting.

5. Should I bring a friend or family member?

Some people experience a lot of different emotions when they’re given the opportunity to hear clearly once again. Many people bring friends and family members for support, so if you feel that it will help you ease into your hearing aids and cope with the emotional impact, you should definitely bring someone along.