Hearing Aid Fittings

Hearing aids are life-changing devices that offer a world of sound to those with hearing loss. However, to reap their full benefits, they must be correctly fitted to your ears and personalized to your unique hearing needs. This comprehensive guide will take you through the intricate process of hearing aid fittings.

What is a Hearing Aid Fitting?

A hearing aid fitting is a procedure conducted by an audiologist or a hearing care professional to ensure that your hearing aids are customized to your specific hearing loss, ear shape, and lifestyle needs. It involves selecting the appropriate hearing aid, adjusting its settings, and educating you on how to use and maintain it.

The Importance of a Hearing Aid Fitting

Hearing aid fittings are crucial in optimizing the performance of your hearing aids. They ensure that the devices provide the exact level of amplification you need at every frequency where you have hearing loss. This personalized approach results in a “just right” balance of sound, allowing you to enjoy a restored hearing experience.

The Hearing Aid Fitting Process

The hearing aid fitting process comprises several steps, each of which plays a vital role in ensuring your hearing aids function optimally.

1. Hearing Aid Evaluation - The fitting process begins with a comprehensive hearing aid evaluation. Your audiologist will conduct a series of tests to determine the severity and peculiarities of your hearing loss. This information will guide the selection of the most suitable hearing aids for you.
2. Hearing Aid Selection - There are numerous types of hearing aids available, each with its unique features and benefits. Based on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget, your audiologist will help you choose the right hearing aid. Whether you prefer nearly invisible devices or bold, bright designs, the selection process ensures you get a hearing aid you are comfortable with.
3. Ear Impressions (for custom devices) - For custom hearing aids and behind-the-ear models, your audiologist will take an impression of your ear canal. These molds ensure that your device fits perfectly and comfortably in your ear.
4. Hearing Aid Programming - Once your hearing aids arrive, your audiologist will connect them to a computer and program them according to your specific hearing loss and preferences. This stage might involve several appointments until the sound quality is just right for you.
5. Real Ear Measurement -Real Ear Measurement (REM) is a procedure that evaluates the exact sound levels provided by your hearing aids. This precise method ensures that the amplification is customized to your particular hearing loss across frequencies.
6. Patient Education and Counseling - Your audiologist will teach you how to insert and remove your hearing aids, change batteries, clean and maintain them, and adjust amplification levels. This step ensures that you are comfortable using your device and can keep it in good condition for longer.

Adjusting to Your New Hearing Aids

Adjusting to hearing aids can take time. It's not as simple as getting new eyeglasses. You'll start hearing sounds you might not have heard in years, and it may feel overwhelming initially. However, the more you wear your hearing aids, the quicker your brain will adjust to the new sounds. This phase is essential to the hearing aid fitting process.

Post-Fitting Follow-Up

Your audiologist will schedule follow-up appointments to assess how well you are adjusting to your hearing aids and to make any necessary adjustments. Even after the fitting, your audiologist remains your partner in all matters related to your hearing aid.

The Role of Real Ear Measurements (REM)

Real Ear Measurements (REM) are crucial in customizing the performance of your hearing aids. This "gold standard" of performance testing ensures the device provides the precise amplification you need at every frequency you have hearing loss. REM is an integral part of the hearing aid fitting process, contributing to superior hearing aid performance.

The Attentus Hearing Care Advantage

At Attentus Hearing Care, we offer in-home (mobile) hearing care, including new hearing aid fittings. By using evidence-based best practices, including Real Ear Measurement (REM), we ensure your hearing aids are tailored to your unique needs. We're here to support you on your journey towards improved hearing.

Mobile Hearing Aid Fittings

Hearing aids can significantly improve the quality of life for those with hearing loss. However, the key to their success lies in a proper hearing aid fitting. This comprehensive process ensures your hearing aids are personalized to your hearing loss, ear shape, and lifestyle needs, providing you with the best possible hearing experience. With the right audiologist and a fitting process that includes Real Ear Measurement, you can look forward to a world of sound with your new hearing aids.