Hearing loss is often associated with old age, but it doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you when you’re young.
If you sometimes cannot hear certain pitches or words well, it might be time to look into hearing aids.
Sometimes people wait to get a hearing test done due to fear of losing their hearing completely. If you’re finally ready to face up to your hearing issues, then getting fitted with hearing aids is a great place to start. But what exactly happens during a hearing aid fitting?
Keep reading to find out all about it and what to expect.
Pre-Fitting Assessment
Before fitting, the audiologist will review your medical history. They will conduct a hearing evaluation and discuss your hearing concerns and lifestyle. This helps them understand the degree and type of hearing loss you have and any specific listening challenges you face.
During the assessment, you’ll also learn about hearing aid costs and associated services.
Hearing Aid Selection
Based on the assessment, the audiologist will recommend suitable hearing aid options. There are various styles and features available. They will help you choose the most appropriate ones for you.
Your provider can also explain different types of assistive technology to enhance your overall hearing.
Physical Fitting
During the physical fitting, the specialist first takes a detailed look at the ear canal. The audiologist will take ear impressions or use other fitting techniques to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. This step is crucial as a well-fitted hearing aid maximizes comfort and sound quality.
Programming and Adjustments
Hearing aids need to be programmed according to your specific hearing needs, which are determined during the assessment. The audiologist will adjust the settings to provide you with the best possible hearing experience. This may involve adjusting volume, frequency response, and other parameters.
Adjustments made during a fitting are intended to improve sound clarity and comfort so that the user can get the most out of their hearing aid.
Learning How to Use Hearing Aids
Once the hearing aid is fitted, the individual will be taught how to use and care for the hearing aid. This includes learning how to insert and remove the hearing aid, how to change settings, and how to clean and maintain the device. The individual will also learn how to troubleshoot issues and common problems they may have with the hearing aid.
Real-World Testing
Once the hearing aids are fitted and programmed, you will be asked to wear them in various listening environments to evaluate their effectiveness.
The audiologist will make further adjustments, if necessary, based on your feedback.
Preparing for a Hearing Aid Fitting
Hearing aid fitting is a very important step in addressing hearing loss. Preparing ahead of time will ensure you feel comfortable and confident. Scheduling an appointment with an audiologist, making sure to bring your hearing test results, and understanding your hearing needs can help make the fitting process easier.
Make sure to ask questions and voice any concerns. Doing so will also give you the peace of mind that you are taking care of your hearing needs. Book a fitting now and see how much a hearing aid can do for you.
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