Once you have selected your hearing aids after an evaluation, the audiologist will program them, based on a prescription, to meet your hearing needs. We will explain how to use the devices, how to put them in the ear and how to remove them, how to change batteries and how to care for and clean the devices. It is also a good idea to bring family members or close friends to the hearing aid fitting so they can help remember all the information that is given and be a support to you.
When you put the hearing aids in for the first time, you may have different emotions about the sounds you hear. This is normal and to be expected. The goal of the hearing aid is to make everyday sounds audible and comfortable, but the sound you hear should be clear and pleasant. Small changes can be made to the hearing aids at your first fitting if there are things that you feel should be adjusted right away. Our audiologists will do some testing at the day of the fitting to make sure the hearing aids are giving you the needed gain. For new hearing aid users, it is common for us to set your prescription to about 70-80% of your target prescriptive gain. This will help you to adjust easier to the sudden input of sound.
Attitude is one important key to success with hearing aids. Hearing aid studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude do better with hearing aids. If you, as well as your spouse or family, approach your hearing aid fitting with a positive outlook you will have a much better listening experience more quickly. Keep in mind that it may take some time to get used to the sounds you were missing, and by working closely with your hearing professional, you will get the most out of your new hearing aids. Typically we will schedule 1-2 follow-up appointments in our office during the first two months of the hearing aid fitting process.