What is the Purpose of a Hearing Aid Fitting?

Following your initial appointment and evaluation at your audiologist's office, you will select your hearing device. Later, you will return to the office to have it fitted and to learn more about how it operates and how to look after it. You will also gain valuable data about your hearing loss and how to test the device. 

Your audiologist will test your hearing range. They will test the loudest and softest sounds you can hear, and then you will then learn how to program your hearing device to an optimal setting. 

For battery information  

Hearing devices are available in different shapes and sizes. There are in-the-ear (ITE) devices, behind-the-ear devices, and in-the-canal (ITC) devices; there are also different kinds of batteries available, replacement batteries and rechargeable ones. Your audiologist will help you understand the type and maintenance of your hearing device battery. 

Generally, hearing devices contain a zinc-air button battery. This is a very small battery that fits seamlessly into the hearing device. You will need to understand when it is running low and how to replace it. If it's rechargeable, you need to know how to recharge it, so it doesn't lose its effectiveness. 

To check for comfort 

Can you imagine wearing a suit or dress to a formal occasion that's too tight around the waist? Or shoes for hiking that are one size too small? It isn't very pleasant and chafes. This can happen when a hearing aid isn't fitted by an audiologist. 

For these reasons, it's very important that you have your hearing aid properly fitted. Your audiologist will check and test the device so you're comfortable with it. They will even check with you after a trial period to ensure that the device is still comfortable for you and operating properly. 

For maintenance information 

Today hearing devices are quite sophisticated. They not only boost environmental sound so your inner ear can pick it up better, but they also have noise-canceling functions and smart technology. Some hearing devices can optimize automatically depending on your environment or situation. But this advanced technology must be properly cared for.

For a hearing device to operate at maximum efficiency, it needs to be regularly cleaned and stored correctly when not in use. If the tubes or the earpiece gets clogged up with wax, for instance, it will impact your hearing. Your fitting is a chance for your audiologist to impart this key maintenance information. 

To ask questions 

Having a hearing aid fitted is a significant life event, and, naturally, you will have questions to ask. Before you visit the office for your fitting, it may be worthwhile to take some notes about key questions you have if you forget during the appointment. Your fitting is an excellent opportunity for you to have any niggling questions answered. Your audiologist is the best person to consult about these questions, and you will leave the office feeling reassured and with a full understanding of your hearing device.