If you have had a hearing test that has identified hearing loss, then your next step is likely to be a hearing aid fitting. Hearing aids, when configured correctly, can make a huge difference to your quality of life, so it’s safe to assume to you’re going to want this fitting to go well.

If you’re attending your first ever hearing aid fitting, you may find it beneficial to have some idea as to what you should expect from the process. Some people are anxious about what will happen during their fitting and how it will proceed; if this sounds familiar, then the points below should be reassuring.

Expect another hearing test

It’s very likely that you will undergo a second hearing test during your hearing aid fitting. This will be used to help try and configure the right device for you, as well as to measure how your hearing improves when you have the hearing aid fitted. This is particularly helpful as there is often a gap between your hearing test and the hearing aid fitting, so this step ensures that your hearing professional has the very latest up-to-date information regarding your situation.

A check for a comfortable fit

A hearing aid has to work in terms of amplification and improving your ability to hear, but it also has to be comfortable to wear. Your hearing aid fitting will thus focus on your comfort using the device, helping to ensure that you’re going to be happy to wear your hearing aid during everyday life.

If your hearing aid is uncomfortable, tell your audiologist about this – they will want to be able to rectify the problem.

Full instructions and guidance

You will be taught how to use your hearing aid during the test, so if you’re concerned about any aspect of operating your device, don’t worry – there will be ample opportunity to discuss it. You’ll also receive plenty of helpful tips on getting the most from your hearing aid, as well as guidance on the maintenance and cleaning you’re going to want to perform.

You will also have the opportunity to discuss any lingering questions you may have about using your hearing aid and what you can and can’t do when it’s in place. Use the appointment as a chance to ensure you’re 100 percent confident about using your device in the “real world”.

A discussion about a follow-up appointment

All good audiologists will want to see you again in the future, just to make sure that getting on well with your new device. You may even find it useful to book this appointment at the time of your first fitting. If you do experience any issues with your hearing aid, you’ll already have a date set when you can discuss them with an audiologist and find a resolution that works for you.

Your hearing aid fitting is the first step towards improving your hearing for good. Hopefully, reading through the above will ensure you know exactly what to expect from your appointment, so you are as prepared for the experience as you can possibly be.