Why are Hearing Aid Fittings Important?

Hearing aid fittings play a crucial role in helping people to hear better. If you’ve been struggling with your hearing, and your audiologist has advised you to start using hearing aids, this is the appointment you’ve probably been looking forward to.

Why are hearing aid fittings important?

Hearing aid fittings are important for several reasons, and it’s vital to get this stage of treatment just right to ensure that you are able to maximize the benefits of wearing hearing aids and get the most out of them. Here are some of the key reasons why hearing aid fittings are essential:

Checking the fit of your hearing aids

If you have new hearing aids, your audiologist will check the fit before you head home and start getting used to life with your new devices. It’s essential that your hearing aids fit properly to ensure optimum function. If the hearing aid is too loose, for example, it could fall out if you move your head very quickly and if the earmolds are too small, you may find your hearing aids uncomfortable. To check that you’re happy with your hearing aids, your audiologist will place the devices in your ear, and then ask you how you feel about the fit. If you’re not entirely comfortable, don’t hesitate to tell your audiologist. They will be able to adjust the hearing aid for you.

Programming your hearing aids

Hearing aids are innovative little wonders, which have different settings that can be programmed to suit the individual and the environment. Once you’ve got your new hearing aids, your audiologist will show you how to change the settings and alter your hearing aids so that you can hear as well as possible. As your audiologist changes the programs, they will ask you for feedback to find the right settings for you. Everyone is different, so it’s important to tailor each hearing aid for the best results. Initially, your audiologist may advise you to wear your hearing aids for a limited period of time each day, and they will discuss a schedule with you at your fitting. It’s beneficial to increase the duration gradually to enable your brain to adjust.

Maintenance and care

When you take your new hearing aids home, you’ll need to look after them. At your hearing aid fitting, your audiologist will give you information and advice about caring for your hearing aids, including tips about cleaning, changing batteries, and storing your hearing aids safely. You can ask any questions you have about taking care of your hearing aids, and if you do have any problems or queries when you get home, don’t hesitate to give your audiologist a call.

If you’ve been looking forward to being able to hear again, your hearing aid fitting probably can’t come soon enough. This is a vital stage of the treatment process, which enables your audiologist to check the fit of your hearing aids, test their performance, customize them for the individual and provide tips and advice about cleaning and upkeep.