According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), approximately 15% of American adults, or 37.5 million people aged 18 and over, report some trouble hearing. For many, hearing aids can have a significant improvement on overall quality of life and hearing experiences.
The process of acquiring a hearing aid involves several stages. One of the most crucial ones is the hearing aid fitting. Ensuring that your hearing aids fit correctly and meet your specific needs is paramount to a successful hearing experience.
10 Questions to Ask During Your Hearing Aid Fitting
During the hearing aid fitting, it is essential to ask the right questions to understand the full functionality of the device and to ensure comfort. Here are 10 essential questions to ask during your hearing aid fitting.
1. How Does This Hearing Aid Model Work?
Understanding the functionalities and settings of your hearing aid will ensure that you can use it to its fullest potential. Ask your hearing specialist to explain the features, how to adjust settings, and how it might be tailored to your specific hearing loss.
2. What is the Best Way to Clean and Maintain My Hearing Aids?
Maintenance is key to the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Make sure to inquire about the best cleaning practices and products to use. We’ve put together a hearing aid maintenance guide to help.
3. How Long Will the Hearing Aid Batteries Last?
Battery life can vary between models. It’s important to know how long you can expect your batteries to last, when they would need replacing, and how to care for them. If you’re using rechargeable hearing aids, make sure you’re comfortable with how to charge them up. We’d also recommend keeping spare batteries, just in case!
4. Can You Explain the Warranty and Repair Process?
Knowing the details of the warranty and what it covers can save you stress in the future. Don’t forget to ask about the process for repairs and replacements.
5. How Do I Connect My Hearing Aids to Other Devices?
Modern hearing aids often come with connectivity features. Ask how to connect to your phone or other devices to enhance your experience.
6. What is the Adjustment Period Like?
Adapting to hearing aids may take time. Knowing what to expect can help ease the transition.
7. What Follow-Up Appointments Will I Need?
Ongoing care is crucial. Ask about follow-up appointments and what they will entail.
8. Are There Any Accessories or Additional Features I Should Consider?
Inquire about accessories or additional features that might enhance your experience or address your specific needs.
9. What Support is Available if I Have Questions or Issues?
Make sure to know who to contact if you encounter any problems or have additional questions later on.
10. What Accessories Should I Consider?
Hearing aids can have a variety of accessories that may or may not be suitable for your lifestyle. Our hearing specialists will help you understand your unique listening requirements, and advise on which accessories would be the most appropriate for you.
A hearing aid fitting is more than just ensuring the device fits in your ear. It’s a comprehensive process that necessitates understanding the technology, maintenance, warranties, and more. By asking these 10 essential questions, you can take control of your hearing health and enjoy the benefits of your new hearing aids with confidence.
Need Help? Have a Question? Contact Us Today!
If you’d like to discuss more about hearing aid fittings, please get in touch with the team at Regional Hearing and Balance Center today. Call us at 208-497-3596 or click here to book an appointment.
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