Following your hearing aid evaluation and selection, you will be scheduled for your hearing aid dispensing and fitting appointment. At this appointment your audiologist will first program your new devices to your specific prescription based on the results of your hearing test and your listening needs. Once the devices have been programmed, your audiologist will teach you how to use and care for your new hearing aids. This orientation will include how to clean the devices, replace parts on the devices, change batteries or charge the devices, and how to take the hearing aids in and out of the ear. This appointment generally lasts about an hour, but can go longer to ensure that you feel comfortable with your devices. It is a good idea to bring a friend or family member to this appointment for support and assistance with all the information given. Your audiologist will also give you written instructions for your specific devices to help retain all information reviewed at the appointment.
Understanding your hearing aids
You may experience different emotions when first listening through your hearing aids. This is normal and to be expected. The sounds you are hearing should be clear and pleasant, with the main goal of the hearing aid being to make sound audible but also comfortable. Your audiologist should run additional tests during the fitting to make sure the devices are giving you enough sound where you need it. Additionally, remember to ask any questions or discuss any concerns you may have with your professional.
Fitting your hearing aids
You may be also be given a short survey or list of questions to answer. Be honest about what you hear so that the hearing professional can work with you to create the best listening experience with your new hearing aids. Your hearing aid fitting is only a starting place; other changes to customize the hearing to your liking may need to take place over a few appointments, as we want the hearing aids to fit your individual listening needs.
Adjusting to hearing aids
Attitude is one important key to success with hearing aids. Hearing aid studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude do better with hearing aids. If you, as well as your spouse or family, approach your hearing aid fitting with a positive outlook you will have a much better listening experience more quickly. Also keep in mind that it may take some time to get used to the sounds you were missing as you have been hearing through the filter of your hearing loss. Gradually increasing the duration you wear the hearing aids throughout the day over the first few weeks will allow your brain a chance to better adapt to the new sounds you are hearing. Following the fitting, you will be scheduled for a two-week follow-up appointment to gauge your progress with your hearing aids and make any necessary adjustments to get the most out of your devices.