Do you think you need hearing aids but are hesitant about getting a professional fitting? Many people are led to believe they can simply buy over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids without professional advice and start using them right away. While some may experience benefits, many new users quickly discover the limitations of these devices. Frustrated and disappointed, they often give up, return the product, and abandon the idea of better hearing altogether.
The Importance of Customized Fitting
Hearing aids, like glasses or dental prosthetics, are not one-size-fits-all. Have you noticed how unique your ears are compared to others’? Hearing aids need to address your individual needs—they are prescriptive and tailored specifically to you. By working with a trained audiologist, like our team at Associated Hearing, you can be confident that your hearing aids will be customized to your specific hearing challenges.
The fitting process goes far beyond choosing the right size and shape. It includes adjusting the settings, updating software, and fine-tuning amplification based on a comprehensive hearing assessment, or audiogram. We use these results to program your hearing aids to target the exact frequencies where you struggle.
The Risks of Skipping Professional Fitting
Skipping a professional fitting that follows Best Practices Protocol can lead to several issues, including:
- Discomfort: Poorly fitted hearing aids can press on sensitive areas of your ear or cause irritation, making them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Inconsistent Sound Quality: Improper programming may cause sounds to be too loud, too soft, or distorted, hindering your ability to hear speech or other important sounds clearly.
- Potential Hearing Damage: Over-amplification from poorly adjusted devices can further harm your hearing over time.
- Underperformance: This is one of the most common reasons OTC hearing aids fail. If the device isn’t fine-tuned to your specific needs, it won’t effectively address the reasons you purchased it in the first place.
What to Expect During a Professional Hearing Aid Fitting
When you visit our office, our expert hearing care professionals will guide you through these steps to ensure the perfect fit:
- In-Depth Case History and Hearing Assessment –
We start by reviewing your medical history and conducting a comprehensive hearing test. This evaluation helps us understand your specific hearing loss and provides the foundation for tailoring your hearing aids.
- Lifestyle Discussion –
We’ll discuss your daily routines, social activities, and typical sound environments. This helps us customize the settings to suit your lifestyle.
- Physical Fit –
Based on the anatomy of your ear, we’ll help you choose the best style—such as in-the-ear or behind-the-ear models—and ensure a secure, comfortable fit.
- Follow-Up Appointments –
Over time, we’ll fine-tune your hearing aids based on your feedback and any evolving needs to ensure optimal performance.
The Benefits of a Customized Hearing Aid Fit
When your hearing aids are properly fitted, the results can be life-changing. You’ll experience improved hearing clarity, reduced listening effort, and even cognitive benefits as your brain works less to interpret sounds.
Invest in Your Hearing
While OTC hearing aids are becoming more widely available, they’re often akin to “auditory cheaters”—a temporary fix with limited effectiveness. Even with features like smartphone adjustability, they lack the customization and fine-tuning needed for optimal performance. As a result, many users become frustrated and abandon them, missing the opportunity for truly better hearing.
If you’ve been diagnosed with hearing loss or are struggling with your current hearing aids, consider booking an appointment with one of our Board-Certified Audiologists. A professional evaluation ensures you get the most from your hearing aids and supports your long-term hearing health.
At Associated Hearing, we provide compassionate, comprehensive care. During your appointment, you’ll receive a detailed hearing assessment, expert guidance for selecting and adjusting your hearing aids, and follow-up support to ensure your satisfaction.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Take the first step toward better hearing and a richer life experience by scheduling an appointment with us today.