Common Challenges During Hearing Aid Fittings and Solutions

Hearing aids are an amazing tool that can help improve your health and your quality of life by making the world around you more accessible. They can amplify voices and sounds so that you can better hear, socialize, and communicate with those around you.

If you are new to hearing aids, there will be an adjustment period. This will be different for everyone, as your experience will be unique. Change is a big deal, which is why it is important to be aware of and understand the most common challenges that come up during hearing aid fittings so that you can better prepare yourself and the right solutions can be found that are tailored to your needs.

Choosing the Best Hearing Aid for Your Needs

It can be difficult to know what hearing aids you should choose. There are many factors that you should consider, including your current level of hearing, your lifestyle and your health. Your audiologist will be able to help you choose the one that is most comfortable for you and best suits your needs.

Not Getting a Hearing Aid Immediately

Some will assume that you will be issued with a hearing aid straight away. There are some fitting appointments, whereby the appointment will be used to take measurements and molds so that a custom hearing aid can be made for you. Make sure you speak with your audiologist for a better understanding of what to expect at your appointment.

Discomfort or a Poor Fit

A hearing aid will be fitted onto, or inside of your ear. If this is the first time you have had hearing aids, then this might feel a little unfamiliar to you at first. This is perfectly normal, as your body will need to adjust to having something there. First, you should try to determine whether it is just unfamiliar, or whether there is more to it than that for example, if it does not fit correctly. If it is just not being used to wearing your hearing aids, then consistently wearing them will help you get used to them quicker. If your hearing aids are causing discomfort or ill-fitted contact your audiologist, they can make any necessary adjustments and provide you with tailored advice.

Adjusting to the Sound Settings

Not only do you need to get used to having something on or in your ear, but you will also need to take some time to get used to the new way that you hear sounds. Sounds that have not been normal to you but perhaps are to others, may feel strange at first. For example, running water, clocks ticking and even the sound of your own voice. These also might be sounds that you are familiar with, but on a much quieter level. It will take time for your brain to adjust. Be patient with yourself and take time to retrain your brain. Practice when you have spare time, making different noises so you can become familiar with them.

Need help finding the best hearing aid for you? Give Hear In MetroWest a call today at (774) 375-0373. We’ll be happy to discuss your options with you!