What To Expect When You Go To Get Your Hearing Aid Upgraded.

For many people once you have had a hearing aid for a number of years it can seem quite a daunting process to have your hearing aid upgraded. It can take a while to get used to your current hearing aid and you have probably had your ups and downs and finally got used to it. However, whether you feel your hearing aid has changed or not it is a good idea to have a reassessment. Hearing aids are continually changing and being improved and what might seem right for your hearing at the moment could actually be not as a good as what currently is available.

For a new hearing aid your Audiologist or hearing aid specialist will need to:

1)      Take a new history of any new medical or ear related complaints that have occurred since your last assessment

2)      Chat with you about your usage of your current hearing aid and any difficulties you are experiencing.

3)      Have your ears examined with an otoscope for any ear wax or abnormaities

4)      If you have an ear mould this will be checked to see if it still fits your ear correctly

5)      Perform a new hearing test to see if your hearing has changed

6)      If your ear mould fits correctly or has previously been made at a separate appointment your audiologist or hearing aid specialist can then start to set up your new hearing aid.

7)      Take a measurement called a “Real Ear Measurement” within your ear canal using a small probe, this does not hurt at all but may tickle.

8)      Take about 15 minutes programming your new hearing aid to match your new test prescription

9)      Check how well you can hear with your new hearing aid

10)   Go through any changes in hearing aid features such as new programs or controls