Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all technology. After you’ve selected your hearing aids and your new devices are ready, you will need to visit your audiologist for hearing aid fitting, programming and counseling. Without these professional services, your hearing aids are much less likely to perform at their full potential.
Your hearing aid fitting, programming and counseling will occur over several appointments before, during and after you receive your new hearing aids. It’s important to maintain a close relationship with your audiologist through this process in order to effectively prepare for and adapt to life with hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Fittings
Hearing aids need to fit snugly and comfortably in your ear for successful treatment. Depending on the type of hearing aid you choose, your hearing aid specialist may need to either make custom earmolds or take measurements of your ears to ensure a perfect fit. When you receive your hearing devices, you’ll need to schedule another hearing aid fitting appointment. During this visit, your doctor will ensure your hearing aids fit correctly and comfortably.
Hearing Aid Programming
Today’s hearing aids are tiny devices that contain an amazing amount of digital technology. Most types of modern hearing devices come with features that allow patients to program their hearing preferences for different listening situations. During your hearing aid fitting and programming appointment, your doctor will help you understand how to:
- Adjust the volume
- Use and change your settings
- Insert and remove your hearing aids
- Utilize all of your hearing aids’ features
- Insert and remove batteries
- Clean and maintain your devices
- Make programming adjustments
- Use any hearing aid accessories you selected
Hearing Aid Counseling
Hearing aid counseling is vital to patients before, during and after the hearing aid selection process. Hearing device counseling services vary from patient to patient depending on the diagnosis, hearing loss type, hearing device type and individual needs. Some examples of the guidance we offer at Hearing and Balance Center include counseling on:
- Strategies for successful communication
- The advantages and limitations of hearing aids
- Making adjustments based on your environment
- Examining your expectations and frustrations
- The effects of hearing aids on your activities and routines