Hearing aid fittings help people with hearing problems hear better. During hearing aid fittings, audiologists adjust the hearing aids to fit each person’s specific needs and preferences.

These adjustments make the hearing aids more comfortable and helpful, which helps people communicate better.

It’s important to get help from audiologists for these fittings because they have special training to understand hearing loss and find the best hearing aids and settings for each person.

Audiologists at Brant Audiology & Tinnitus are experts in hearing aid fittings.

What happens during a hearing aid fitting?

Hearing aid fitting makes sure the device works best for you. It starts by checking how well you hear and the style that you like. Then, we pick the right hearing aid. Here are the six main steps we follow:

Evaluation and Assessment

The audiologist will check how well you hear by talking about your hearing history, daily life, and any problems you have with hearing. This helps them figure out how much and what kind of hearing loss you have, and helps them pick the right hearing aid for you.

Based on the results and your preferences, the audiologist suggests which hearing aids would work best for you.

Once you have selected your hearing aids, the audiologist will change the volume based on how you hear different sounds. This is to make sure that you hear your best.

After setting up the hearing aids, the audiologist tests them to make sure they make sounds louder as needed and help you hear better.

Regular check-up appointments are scheduled to see how well the hearing aids are working and to make any changes if needed. The audiologist also teaches how to take care of the hearing aids so they last a long time and work well.

Real Ear Measurement

Real Ear Measurement (REM) is a very important test when fitting hearing aids. It helps make sure the hearing aids work just right for each person. During REM, a small microphone goes into the ear canal with the hearing aid. It measures how much sound actually gets to the eardrum with the hearing aid on. This test helps audiologists check if the hearing aids are giving the right amount of sound boost as needed.

REM is important because it helps fine-tune how the hearing aids are set up. Audiologists use the measurements to adjust things like how much sound is boosted, what frequencies are boosted, and how loud sounds can get. This makes sure the hearing aids match what each person needs to hear well. By making these adjustments, the hearing aids can make speech clearer and make all sounds easier to hear.

Also, REM makes sure the hearing aids work as they should in real life, not just in tests. It checks if they meet the goals set by the audiologist accurately. This makes sure people are happy with their hearing aids and they keep working well over time.

Adjusting to hearing aids

Adjusting to hearing aids takes time. When you first wear them, sounds might seem louder or different. That’s normal! Give yourself time to get used to these changes little by little.

Sometimes, wearing hearing aids might feel uncomfortable at first, especially if they seem big or the sounds aren’t quite right. But don’t worry! Your audiologist can help make adjustments to fix these issues over time.

Your brain plays an important role during this adjustment period. It needs time to learn and understand all the new sounds it’s hearing through the hearing aids. As you keep wearing them, your brain will get used to these sounds more and more, making them feel natural.

It’s really important to wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s hard in the beginning. The more you wear them, the quicker your brain will get used to them. Also, make sure to go to your follow-up appointments with your audiologist. They can make sure your hearing aids are working their best for you.

With patience and help from your audiologist, most people find that they adjust well to their hearing aids. And once they do, they notice big improvements in how they hear and enjoy life.

Adjusting to new hearing aids can take time, usually a few weeks to a few months. During this period, you might feel different things as your brain gets used to louder sounds.

Here are some tips to help you get used to wearing your hearing aids every day:

  1. Start Slowly: Wear your hearing aids in quiet places at first. Then, wear them in noisier places.   
  1. Listen Actively: Pay attention when people talk or during activities that need good listening. This helps your brain get better at understanding the louder sounds.   
  1. Be Patient: It’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed or upset at the beginning. Give yourself time to get used to it.   
  1. Talk to Your Audiologist: Let your audiologist know if you feel uncomfortable or have problems. They can adjust your hearing aids to make them feel better and work better.   
  1. Use Them Regularly: Even if it’s hard, try to wear your hearing aids every day. This helps you adjust faster and get the most out of them.

It’s important to go back to your audiologist for check-ups. They can make sure your hearing aids are working well and fix any problems. They’ll also help you learn more about how to use your hearing aids for better hearing. Regular visits will keep your hearing aids working well and help you enjoy talking and hearing more in your daily life.

Hearing Aid Fitting FAQs

Are hearing aid fittings covered by insurance?

Whether hearing aid fittings are covered by insurance depends on the specific policy and provider. Some insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurance companies, may offer coverage for hearing aid fittings as part of their benefits package. 

However, coverage varies widely, and individuals are encouraged to review their insurance policy or contact their insurance provider directly to determine if hearing aid fittings are covered and what expenses may be reimbursed. Additionally, some insurance plans may require pre-authorization or a referral from a healthcare provider for coverage eligibility.

To improve the fit of your hearing aid, consider the following tips:

  • Consult your audiologist: They can adjust the fit of your hearing aid by reshaping the earpiece or making other modifications to enhance comfort and stability.
  • Use accessories: Try using additional accessories like ear hooks, retention clips, or custom earmolds to improve the fit and prevent slippage.
  • Keep your ears clean and dry: Ensure your ear canal is clean and free of excess wax or moisture, as this can affect the fit and function of your hearing aid.
  • Experiment with different sizes: If your hearing aid comes with interchangeable ear tips or domes, try different sizes to find the best fit for your ears.
  • Practice proper insertion: Ensure you’re inserting your hearing aid correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

The time it takes to fit a hearing aid varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the individual’s hearing loss and the specific fitting requirements. 

Generally, a standard hearing aid fitting appointment can range from 1 to 2 hours. This allows the audiologist to comprehensively evaluate the individual’s hearing, select and customize the appropriate hearing aid, program the device, and provide instructions on proper use and care. 

Follow-up appointments may also be necessary to fine-tune the settings and ensure optimal performance. Overall, the goal is to ensure the hearing aid is fitted accurately and comfortably to meet the individual’s needs.

Hearing Aid Fitting at Wyoming

When seeking a hearing aid fitting in Wyoming, it’s crucial to prioritize personalized care and expertise. 

At Brant Audiology & Tinnitus, we understand the unique needs of individuals with hearing impairments and offer comprehensive fitting services tailored to each patient. Our audiologists are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from evaluating your hearing health to selecting the most suitable hearing aid and fine-tuning its settings for optimal performance. 

With our specialized training and commitment to patient satisfaction, we ensure that your hearing aids are fitted accurately and comfortably, enhancing your communication and quality of life. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back – take the first step towards better hearing today by scheduling a hearing aid fitting appointment at Brant Audiology & Tinnitus. We have clinics located in Casper, Cheyenne, Torrington, and Wheatland, WY.