Adam Bostock explains the process of fitting and fine-tuning new hearing aids.
What happens at your hearing aid fitting appointment?
All of our hearing aid packages include fitting and comprehensive aftercare, as well as a range of additional benefits to ensure you’re getting the most out of your new hearing aids.
In this video, senior audiologist, Adam Bostock will guide you through the process of fitting and fine-tuning your new hearing aids, and will explain how our audiologists are here to support you as you adapt to a world of clearer hearing.
Adam covers everything, from mental preparation and customisation processes like real ear measurements (REMs), to adapting to your new auditory world. Whether you’re a first-time hearing aid user, or looking to understand the process better, this video is packed with insights and practical tips to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Adam: “Hello from Alto Hearing. I’m Adam, and today, we’re going to walk you through the thorough and nuanced process of a hearing aid fitting. This is not just about fitting a device; it’s about embarking on a transformative journey towards better hearing.”
[Part 1: Mental Preparation for the Fitting]
Adam: “Before you step into our clinic for your fitting, it’s essential to mentally prepare yourself. Unlike glasses, which compensate for the eyes’ shortcomings, hearing aids work with your brain, providing it with the necessary auditory inputs. This process requires time and patience. It’s about retraining your brain to interpret these new sounds and make them sound and feel normal. Being prepared for this journey and having an open mind is crucial.
[Part 2: Initial Consultation and Expectation Setting]
Adam: “As we begin your fitting appointment, our first task is to manage expectations. This will likely have been discussed at your initial consultation. We’ll revisit the nature of your hearing loss and discuss how the hearing aids will assist you. It’s crucial to understand that the initial experience with hearing aids can be a significant adjustment. Sounds and even your own voice may seem different – quite often they will be tinny or echoey, and you’ll hear your own voice. This is perfectly normal and we aim to prepare you thoroughly for these changes.”
[Part 3: Physical Fit and Comfort]
Adam: “The next step is ensuring a perfect physical fit for your hearing aids. Comfort is paramount, but so is the effectiveness of the device for your type of hearing loss. We meticulously adjust components, whether it’s fine-tuning the length of the wires or selecting the most suitable domes, venting, or ear-moulds. The right fit impacts not just how the hearing aid feels, but how well it transmits sound into your ear.”
[Part 4: Calibration for Feedback]
Adam: “Calibration for feedback is a technical but essential step. Why do we do this? Feedback, which manifests as whistling or buzzing, can be a common issue with hearing aids. It occurs when amplified sound escapes from the ear and gets picked up by the microphone again, causing a loop. By calibrating the hearing aids, we minimise this feedback, ensuring the sound you hear is as clear and as natural as possible.”
[Part 5: Understanding Real Ear Measurements]
Adam: “Now, let’s talk about real ear measurements, a cornerstone of our customisation process. What are they? Essentially, we place a tiny microphone in your ear canal that looks like a tube close to your eardrum. This allows us to measure exactly how sound is amplified in your ear. It’s a crucial step to ensure that the hearing aids are not just set according to a standard prescription, but are fine-tuned to how your individual ear canal shapes and delivers sound.”
[Part 6: The Process of Adapting to Amplified Hearing]
Adam: “As we move to activating your hearing aids for the first time, be prepared for a new auditory experience. The world will sound different. As I mentioned before, some sounds might be sharper, others may feel overwhelming, and even your own voice might echo in your head. This is a normal reaction as your brain adjusts to processing amplified sounds. To ease this transition, we start with a lower amplification setting, gently increasing it as your comfort with the hearing aids grows.”
[Part 7: The Habituation Process]
Adam: “Adapting to hearing aids is a process we call habituation. It’s akin to training a muscle – gradual and requiring consistent effort. During this phase, it’s not uncommon to experience a range of emotions and sensations. Some sounds might initially feel unnatural or intrusive. Our audiologists are here to support you through this period, making any necessary adjustments and providing guidance on how to get the most out of your hearing aids.”
To give you a personal example, I once tested a new pair of hearing aids at work. They were set to a comfortable volume, and within a few hours, I had adjusted so well that I completely forgot I was wearing them. It was only on my drive home that I realised they were still in. This experience illustrates how quickly our brains can adapt to new auditory information, even if it feels a bit overwhelming at first. It’s not always going to happen in hours though. Sometimes it can take days, weeks or months – we’re all different!
[Part 8: Usage, Maintenance, and the Importance of Follow-Ups]
Adam: “Once you’re comfortable with the initial settings, we’ll guide you through the practical aspects of using your hearing aids. This includes how to insert and remove them, how to use any additional features or accessories, and importantly, how to care for and maintain them. Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your hearing aids.”
Adam: “We also schedule a follow-up appointment, typically within two weeks. This second fitting is an opportunity to review your progress, make further adjustments, and address any concerns you might have. It’s a continuation of the fitting process, ensuring that your transition to amplified hearing is smooth and beneficial.”
[Part 9: Long-Term Support and Continuous Care]
Adam: “At Alto, our commitment to your hearing health doesn’t end with the fitting. We understand that your hearing needs might evolve over time. That’s why we offer ongoing support and care. Regular check-ins, maintenance sessions, and updates to your hearing aids are all part of our comprehensive service. We’re here to ensure that your hearing aids continue to meet your needs and enhance your quality of life.”
[Closing Remarks]
Adam: “This video detailing the journey through the hearing aid fitting process highlights our commitment to providing personalised and comprehensive care. Your journey to better hearing is unique, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for watching. Please like, share, and subscribe for more in-depth insights from our team. Take care, and here’s to a world of clearer hearing!”
Book with us today
If you would like to know more about how we can help you with your hearing, please get in touch and one of our team will be happy to discuss your needs, without obligation.
Alto Hearing & Tinnitus Specialists,
1 Shambles Court,
Bell Street,
Lutterworth,
LE17 4DW
Please read our Covid guidance for the latest information on how we are keeping our staff and customers safe.
We are still here to safely look after your hearing during the Covid pandemic.
At Alto, we strictly adhere to the Joint Audiology & Otology Guidance published by our UK professional governing bodies.
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