During your fitting appointment, Dr. Shafer will program them, based on a prescription, to meet your hearing needs. She will explain how to use the devices, how to put them in the ear and how to remove them, how to change or charge batteries and how to care for and clean the devices. This appointment will generally take one hour and it is a good idea to bring a family member or close friend to the hearing aid fitting so they can help remember all the information that is given and be a support to you. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for written instructions, which can help you better retain the information.

Understanding your hearing aids

When you put the hearing aids in for the first time, you may have different emotions about the sounds you hear. This is normal and to be expected. The goal of the hearing aid is to make everyday sounds audible and comfortable, but the sound you hear should be clear and pleasant. Most likely your hearing loss did not occur overnight, which means giving you back your hearing shouldn’t happen all at once either. You will adjust best to your hearing aids if the sound is increased incrementally over several weeks. Dr. Shafer will see you several times during your thirty day “trial period” to adjust your devices based on your experiences and feedback.

Adjusting to hearing aids

Attitude is one important key to success with hearing aids. Hearing aid studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude do better with hearing aids. If you, as well as your spouse or family, approach your hearing aid fitting with a positive outlook you will have a much better listening experience more quickly. Keep in mind that it may take some time to get used to the sounds you were missing, and by working closely with Dr. Shafer; you will get the most out of your new hearing aids. We want you wearing and enjoying them!