Getting a hearing aid is a life-changing event. With the proper programming and settings, you will be able to hear those soft sounds again, from the birds chirping to the hum of the refrigerator. However, in order to reap the benefits, it’s crucial to have your hearing aid properly fitted by an audiologist for your specific hearing loss needs. Here, we’re going to look at the essential role the hearing aid fitting has to play in the process of your listening experience.

A comfortable fit is important

The most critical part of the hearing aid fitting is making sure that they fit, naturally. Poorly fit devices may be uncomfortable to wear and can irritate your skin, leaving it raw over extended periods of use. Additionally, poorly fit hearing aids are a lot more likely to fall lose if you move too much, turn your head too fast or change your sitting or reclining position. A well-fit hearing aid will stay in your ear much more reliably.

Finding the right settings is important

The fitting is about more than simply making sure that it fits your ear. It’s also about making sure it fits your needs and lifestyle. Your audiologist will ask questions about your workplace, home environment and hobbies, using the information to program the optimal hearing settings. They can even set multiple profiles so that you can switch between programming settings on the fly, depending on which environment you’re in at any one time. Without the help of audiologist, measuring sound levels and setting programs best suited to your needs can be difficult.

Learning how to use it effectively is important

Not all hearing aids come with instructions and even those that do may be difficult to use for some. From operating the different settings to changing the batteries, your audiologist will help you learn all you need to know about using the device. They will also help you learn how to maintain and care for the device, including not just the cleaning that’s necessary, but important rules for hearing aid use, such as not using it in moist environments like the shower. Hearing aids come with a lot of responsibility and your audiologist can make sure that you’re prepared for it.

The answers to your important questions

If you’re getting used to a new hearing aid, it’s not uncommon that you might have some questions regarding its use, maintenance, different settings and features. Your audiologist will be there to answer any of these questions, not just during the hearing aid fitting but well beyond. If you ever need any help or answers, you can get in touch with them and they can get back to you with an answer as soon as possible. Looking on the internet for answers specific to your device can be difficult, given the hundreds of different options out there.

Your audiologist is going to be your best partner in your hearing health journey. From the hearing aid fitting to the advice, repairs and further resources they can provide, don’t hesitate to make an appointment if you need any help with your hearing aid.