Did you know that in the US, 48 million people have some level of hearing loss? Additionally, one in eight people over the age of 12 suffer from hearing loss in both ears.
What’s really unfortunate is that only one in five people who would benefit from hearing aids actually use them.
If you suffer from hearing loss, then it’s very important that you make use of a hearing aid. But, in order to reap the benefits of a hearing aid, you need to make sure it’s fitted properly.
Check out this hearing aid fitting guide to learn everything you need to know about getting your hearing aid fitted.
Hearing Aid Consultation
Before your audiologist can fit your hearing aids, the right ones need to be selected.
Selecting your hearing aids will take place during a consultation session with a hearing aid professional. During your consultation, the hearing aid professional will review the results of your hearing test and explain how these results factor into the type of hearing aid you need.
They will then ask you questions about your daily activities, lifestyle, expectations, and listening situation to determine which type of hearing aid is right for you. For example, if you lead a very active lifestyle, you’ll likely require a different hearing aid than someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle.
After discussing all of these factors, your HCP will make hearing aid recommendations based on your needs. Then, depending on the hearing aids chosen, you may be able to get in for a fitting right away, or you may need to schedule another appointment.
First Hearing Aid Fit
During the initial fitting, your hearing aid professional will make sure the device fits comfortably on your ears.
Then, while you have the hearing aids on, the HCP will program them according to your needs. Typically, this process only takes a few minutes.
Once complete, your hearing aid professional will turn the hearing aids on, and you’ll be able to hear crystal clear through the aids for the first time.
Sometimes, the initial setting is satisfactory. Other times, some fine-tuning needs to be done.
Follow-Up Fittings
Even if everything sounds and fits great during your initial fitting, you’ll still need to come in for follow-up visits.
These visits are scheduled to ensure that your hearing aids still fit well and are working as well as they did when you first tried them on. If you’re experiencing any issues, your hearing aid professional will be able to make adjustments.
Typically, you’ll have your first follow-up appointment two weeks after your first fitting, and then maybe two to three more follow-up visits after that.
Are You Ready for Your Hearing Aid Fitting?
Now that you know what the hearing aid fitting process looks like, it’s time to schedule your appointment.
If you’re looking to get a hearing aid fitting in the Manhattan or Brooklyn area, contact us today.
