Published on November 2nd, 2023
If you or a loved one is about to have a hearing aid fitting, you want the process to go smoothly to ensure optimal hearing.
However, it’s easy to overlook details that matter, affecting the quality of your hearing aid experience.
This blog post outlines how to avoid mistakes during your hearing aid fitting – because the goal isn’t just to hear better, it’s to live better, too.
Stay tuned to learn how to maximize your hearing aid fitting for the best possible results.
1. Not Understanding Your Hearing Loss
The first common mistake is not fully understanding the nature and extent of your hearing loss.
It’s essential to comprehend not just that you have hearing loss, but also its type, degree, and the frequencies it affects. This understanding forms the foundation for a successful hearing aid fitting.
Without a good grasp of your hearing loss, you might end up with a hearing aid that doesn’t cater to your specific needs.
For example, you might need a device that amplifies high-frequency sounds but end up with one designed for low-frequency hearing loss. This can result in a less satisfactory hearing experience.
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2. Skipping The Real-Ear Measurement
Real-ear measurement (REM) is a critical procedure during the hearing aid fitting process. It evaluates how well your hearing aids are working in your ears.
Unfortunately, some people skip this important step, which can lead to poorly fitted hearing aids.
REM involves playing sounds through your hearing aid while it’s in your ear and measuring the sounds that reach your eardrum.
It provides a more accurate assessment of your hearing aid’s performance than relying on the manufacturer’s settings alone.
Skipping REM can leave you with hearing aids that don’t provide optimal sound quality or comfort.
3. Ignoring Follow-Up Appointments
After getting your hearing aids fitted, follow-up appointments are essential to ensure they continue to meet your hearing needs.
Changes in your hearing, the fit of the device, or even its performance can occur over time. Regular follow-ups can help detect and address these changes early on.
Unfortunately, some people neglect these follow-ups, thinking they’re unimportant once they have their hearing aids.
This can lead to discomfort, poor sound quality, and even further hearing damage. So, always attend your follow-up appointments to ensure your hearing aids are performing at their best.
4. Neglecting Proper Care And Maintenance
Hearing aids, like any other device, require proper care and maintenance to function effectively.
This includes regular cleaning, battery replacements, and periodic check-ups. Neglecting these tasks can lead to a buildup of earwax or moisture damage, both of which can affect your device’s performance.
A good way to maintain your hearing aids is by using a hearing aid cleaning set.
These kits usually contain tools specially designed for hearing aid maintenance, ensuring a thorough and safe cleaning process.
Ignoring maintenance can shorten your device’s lifespan and result in unnecessary costs for repairs or replacements.
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Avoid The Mistakes During A Hearing Aid Fitting
Getting a hearing aid fitting can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a correct fit and optimal performance from your hearing aids.
Remember, a good fit not only enhances your hearing experience but also improves your quality of life.
So, take your time, get the facts right, and don’t rush the process. Your ears will thank you.
Interested in learning more? Be sure to check out some of our other articles before you go!
Image Source: Mark Paton
