Dealing with hearing loss can be frustrating, but taking the first steps toward seeking help is crucial. Contacting an audiologist and considering hearing aids can significantly improve your quality of life.
As you progress through the process, a pivotal moment awaits – the hearing aid fitting.
This guide will help you understand what to expect during the fitting and how to prepare for it.
Schedule Adequate Time
Before heading to your hearing aid fitting, make sure to allocate enough time for the appointment. These fittings can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on the adjustments required.
Planning a day around the fitting will allow ample time for discussions with your audiologist. Feel free to ask questions, express any discomfort, and learn about proper hearing aid maintenance. This will also give you a chance to practice using hearing aids and get accustomed to them.
Prepare a List of Questions
The hearing aid fitting is an excellent opportunity to gather valuable information. To make the most of it, prepare a list of questions beforehand.
Consider asking about cleaning procedures, follow-up appointments, battery replacements, and any other concerns you may have. Having your questions ready will ensure you don’t miss out on essential details.
Get a Notebook
During the fitting, your audiologist will provide you with crucial information about your hearing aids. Having a notebook by your side to jot down everything in your own words will prove invaluable.
You can refer back to your notes in the future for maintenance tips, cleaning instructions, and signs of potential issues. This way, you won’t have to rely solely on memory.
Seek Emotional Support
Regaining your hearing can be an emotional experience, so consider bringing a friend or family member along for support. They can make sure you’ve heard and understood everything that was said.
Having someone you trust with you during the fitting can also make the process more comforting. Moreover, they can help you remember important details and be there to share this exciting moment with you.
Lower Your Expectations
It’s important to be realistic about the results of the hearing aids. While they can significantly enhance your quality of life, they won’t fully restore your natural hearing ability. Understand that there are limitations in the science and technology related to hearing loss.
It’s normal not to achieve a perfect fit after just one fitting. Be prepared for follow-up appointments to fine-tune the hearing aids for optimal performance.
Follow the Wearing Schedule
For first-time hearing aid users, your hearing care provider will likely give you a wearing schedule. This schedule will outline how long you should wear your hearing aids during the first week and under what circumstances.
Adhering to this schedule will help you adapt to the hearing aids and experience the best results. Remember, your audiologist is there to guide you through the process, so, take the plunge and take those first steps towards improved hearing and a better quality of life.
