What to Expect at a Hearing Aid Fitting
Congratulations! You’ve made the important decision to improve your hearing. You’ve discussed your options with your audiologist, and now you’re scheduled for a hearing aid fitting appointment. But what exactly happens at this appointment? Do you just pick up your hearing aids and start using them? Not quite! Here’s what you can expect.
Comfort and Fit Check
The first step is making sure your hearing aids feel comfortable. Your audiologist will have you try them on to check that they fit well - no pinching, popping out, or sliding around. Comfort is important, because even the most advanced hearing aids won’t help if they’re uncomfortable to wear.
Real Ear Measurement
At Birdsong Audiology, we always begin with real ear measurement. A tiny probe microphone is placed in your ear (it might tickle a little) while you listen to voices through a speaker. This measurement helps us:
Confirm your hearing aids fit your ears properly
Ensure your hearing aid programming is tailored to your hearing needs
Some clinics may do this measurement later or skip it entirely - having it done at your fitting ensures the best care and accuracy from day one.
Learning to Insert Your Hearing Aids
Your audiologist will guide you on how to insert your hearing aids correctly. While it might look simple, it can take some practice to do it comfortably and confidently on your own.
Cleaning and Care
Hearing aids perform best when they are properly cared for. Your audiologist will show you how to clean and maintain them, which is usually straightforward but essential for longevity and performance.
Optional: Bluetooth Pairing
Many modern hearing aids connect to your phone or other devices via Bluetooth. Depending on how the appointment goes, your audiologist may set this up for you or schedule it for later. Either way, you’ll have a chance to test it out in the office before trying it at home.
Scheduling Your First Follow-Up
Getting used to hearing aids takes time. Your audiologist will schedule a follow-up appointment, usually within 1–3 weeks to monitor your progress, adjust settings if needed, and answer any questions you may have.
Your hearing aid fitting is about more than just picking up a device - it’s about ensuring comfort, proper programming, and learning how to use and care for your new hearing aids. With the right support, this appointment sets you up for a successful transition to clearer, more confident hearing.
