What to Expect at Your Hearing Aid Fitting

The waiting is over, your hearing aid has arrived, and now it's time to visit your audiologist for the fitting. You may be feeling a few different emotions right now. Perhaps you're excited about getting your new hearing device? Maybe you're nervous about the change of wearing a hearing aid? To help you prepare, let's go over what you can expect at your hearing aid fitting.

1 . Learning about your hearing aid

At your hearing aid fitting, your audiologist will help you understand your new hearing aid. They will explain how to use the device, including insertion and removing the hearing aid. Your audiologist will use a mirror to give you a clearer idea. The audiologist will also explain how to maintain and properly take care of your hearing aid. If you're getting an ITC or an ITE hearing aid, the process will involve inserting the device into your ear. Alternatively, you might have a BTE hearing aid, which is fitted behind the ear.

2. Fitting your hearing aid

Once you've learned about your hearing aid, your audiologist will fit your hearing aid and then program the device. Your audiologist will use the results of your audiology assessment to ensure that your hearing aid is programmed correctly. With the right programming, your hearing aid will be equipped to support your hearing in a variety of sound environments. At this point, your audiologist will also conduct a 'real-ear measurement test.' The test helps the audiologist to determine if the amplification level is correct at each frequency.

3 . Hearing aid schedule 

Once the fitting is complete, your audiologist will give you a schedule. The schedule will determine how often you should wear your hearing aids over the next few weeks. You should follow the schedule and any advice given. Over the next few weeks, you should pay close attention to your experience with hearing aids. It can be useful to note down:

• Any environments or situations where your hearing aids are less effective.
• Any issues with how they feel inside your ears.
• The battery life and how long they last.

If you have any issues or concerns, you can take this up with your audiologist at your next appointment.

4. Asking questions

Before your appointment comes to an end, there will be the chance to ask your audiologist any questions that you have. You might want to ask questions such as:

• Can I use my hearing aids with headphones?
• Can I adjust the settings of my hearing aids?
• Do I need to wear my hearing aids all the time?
• What should I do if my hearing aids are uncomfortable?
• Should I be using any other assisted listening devices?

Your hearing aid fitting appointment should last approximately 45 minutes to one hour. In some cases, the appointment may be a little longer. If you need any further information about types of hearing aids, or treatments for hearing loss, our audiology practice can help.