If you’ve never used a hearing device, you may be surprised to find out that the audiologist is a key part of every hearing success story.
When you first visit an audiologist, you’ll undergo a series of tests that are designed to identify the type of hearing loss you’re experiencing, which audio frequencies you’re having most trouble with, and what type of hearing device will work best for your particular case.
Once that’s done, your audiologist will summarize his or her findings and then make recommendations about which types of hearing devices would work best for your case. You will then be able to go over the features of the different devices and make a choice based on features, price, fit, and any other relevant factors.
The audiologist will then fit the hearing aid, adjust it, and go over the device features with you so you know how to work with the device day-to-day.
But the work of the audiologist isn’t done when you leave the office with your new hearing device. As scientific as it is, hearing correction is not an exact science and it’s very hard to be able to predict how the hearing device will perform once you’re back to doing your day-to-day activities. That’s why your audiologist will usually follow up with you to check how the device is performing and what if anything can be improved. Your brain also requires an acclimatization period to adapt to the new sounds it has long not heard.
The audiologist will see you for a follow-up visit a few weeks after the initial fitting. To get the most out of this visit, it’s a good idea to take notes on the performance of your new hearing device so you can be sure to cover any issues with your audiologist, and they don’t slip your mind.
Remember, your audiologist needs your personal input in order to make the tweaks to improve the functionality of the device. If verification and/or validation measures have not been done by this time, they will also be performed to better adjust the amplification your device does.
A word about hearables: the ongoing work that needs to happen to have your hearing device set up optimally should make you skeptical of any device that advertises to work without the need of an exam or setup by an audiologist. Usually, such devices are promoted as being cheaper and easy to use, but hearing is a medical issue and you’ll have the biggest benefits if you can consult with an audiologist.
Have questions about the process of getting fitted for your first hearing device? We’re here to help! Contact us today to set up a consultation!
