Your hearing aids are an integral part of your day-to-day interactions – and the right fit is key to better listening experiences! Proper hearing aid fitting and programming are crucial to your listening experience. An accurately fitted hearing aid ensures comfort and stability, reducing the likelihood of irritation or feedback. Macomb Audiology & Hearing Aid Center prioritizes comfort throughout the fitting process. It takes only a small amount of time to get familiar with the equipment. Once the programming is complete, your device is fully active and ready for use.
Before the Fitting
Over the years, hearing aids have advanced into sophisticated computers that manage a variety of auditory tasks. At first glance, dealing with the features of a hearing device can be intimidating. The hearing aid evaluation introduces most of these features, but most users feel better with a hands-on approach. If a trial isn’t available for the device, then preparation before the fitting appointment is beneficial. Specific hearing issues, maintenance questions and feature details are the most common talking points. If it helps, write down all potential questions that will have an effect on the daily use of the new hearing aids.
Fitting Appointment
An audiologist may perform a thorough ear examination before starting. This check is completed to get ensure there are no issues or conditions that could interfere with the device – like an excess amount of earwax. During the appointment, your hearing aids will be programmed based on results from a test. These optimizations are done in real time as a final bit of programming to the hearing aid. When the profile is set, the audiologist will move on to demonstrations. This includes instructions on maintenance, repair, features and the removal of hearing aids.
Live Speech Mapping
To aid in the fitting process, live speech mapping is used to help with building a profile. This technique is an updated version of traditional verification methods. By using live speech mapping, an audiologist gets a real-time visual display of what the patient can hear. It allows for accurate programming and on the fly adjustments.
For live speech mapping to work, two small microphones are inserted into the canal along with the hearing aid. Live or recorded speech is then used to check how the hearing device reacts in different settings. This interactive process ensures that the hearing aids are finely tuned to deliver the best possible clarity and comfort. By actively participating with feedback, patients can help the specialist make precise adjustments for a more personalized hearing solution.