Once you have selected your hearing aids after your hearing aid evaluation, your Grand Rapids ENT audiologist will program them, based on the appropriate prescription to meet your hearing needs. You will be carefully counseled on 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. You will also be advised on realistic expectations and how to be successful with your hearing aids. We encourage our patients to bring family members or close friends to the hearing aid fitting so they can help remember all the information that is given and so they can 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 also 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. Your audiologist may do some testing to make sure the hearing aids are giving you enough sound where you need it.
You may be also be given a short survey or list of questions to answer. Be honest about what you hear so your hearing professional can work with you to create the best listening experience with your new hearing aids. Your hearing aid fitting is only a starting place; as you wear the hearing aids in more situations and adapt to all the new sounds you are hearing, other changes to customize the sound quality to your liking may need to take place over a few appointments.
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, but many hearing aid wearers say the time spent adjusting is well worth the benefits. By working closely with your audiologist, you will get the most out of your new hearing aids.