If you have had a hearing test and it showed that you would benefit from wearing a hearing aid, one of our qualified hearing professionals will explain the range of aids which are suitable for you.
Technological advancements mean that hearing aids are now smaller than ever, so you can have a small and discreet hearing aid fitted that will help you carry on enjoying life as before.
Our customers often tell us that friends and family can’t tell they’re wearing hearing aids – in fact they find constantly asking people to repeat themselves is more of a giveaway to their hearing loss than being seen to have hearing aids.
What happens during the fitting?
A hearing aid fitting usually takes between 30-45 minutes. During the fitting process, the clinician will discuss the use of the hearing aids and examine your ears again to ensure it is safe to proceed with the fitting. They will also talk to you about getting used to wearing hearing aids and how different things may sound.
The clinician will use a real ear measurement to ensure the hearing aids are set to the correct level based on your ear canal size and hearing loss.
Does the fitting change depending on the type of hearing aid?
If you choose an open fit style, in some instances, you could walk out with your hearing aids professionally fitted and programmed on the same day as your hearing test.
If you choose an ‘in the ear’ style, a mould of your ear is taken to ensure your hearing aid fits perfectly and it is very comfortable to wear. You only need impressions taken for custom-fit hearing aids or if you are having an ear mould made for your hearing aid.
What is the moulding process?
The moulding process is when an impression needs to be taken for any part of the hearing aid that requires to be custom fit to your ear. In this process the clinician will insert a foam block into your ear and insert a putty that solidifies and is then removed. This usually occurs at the hearing test if the patient has decided to go ahead with hearing aids when they are picking the style.
Does it hurt, what does it feel like?
The impression process doesn’t hurt. It is an unusual feeling that can make your ear feel full whilst the putty is in your ear. Your hearing will feel reduced due to the materials in your ear.
If you are having impressions taken your ears will need to be free from infections and wax to have them taken safely.
Are all hearing centres able to take ear impressions which would be suitable for use on custom headphones?
Every Specsavers Hearing Centre can also take ear impressions suitable for custom headphones. We have a wide variety of headphones available which your local hearing care professional can discuss with you. Find your nearest centre here.
How is the hearing aid fitting booked in?
The clinician may arrange for you to come back for your fitting appointment after you’ve had your hearing tested or the store may call to book you in when your hearing aids have arrived into store.
In some cases, if the hearing aids are in stock, you might be able to have them fitted on the same day as your hearing test.
If your hearing aids need to be ordered in, it can take up to five days for an open-fit or up to two weeks for a custom-made product. This will all depend on the style you’ve chosen based on the recommendation given to you by your clinician.
Are hearing aids pre-programmed for me?
Whatever digital hearing aid you choose it will be programmed and adjusted, to your individual hearing requirements. Then a qualified hearing professional will talk you through all its functions so that you know exactly how it works and answer any questions you or your family may have.
How long does it take to adjust to hearing aids?
It can take up to 12 weeks to fully adjust to your hearing aids.
When you have a hearing loss you often lose your hearing gradually and your brain adapts accordingly. So when you are fitted with your hearing aids, you get an instant benefit, but you will need time to adjust to hearing again. Essentially you are retraining your brain to hear sounds at a louder level, so the more you wear the hearing aids the better chance you give yourself to adjust to your new level of hearing.
You’ll suddenly hear things such as clothes rustling, water running, your own voice, clocks ticking etc slightly louder than before - sounds that are everyday ones to someone with normal hearing will seem new to someone with a new hearing aid.
The clinician will book an appointment for two weeks after your fitting, which will either be by phone or face-to-face, to check how you’re getting on with your hearing aids and to see if you require any further adjustments.
