What are Hearing Aids?

The Colorado Academy of Audiology (CAA) wants to assure that all hearing aid fittings are successful and are performed in an ethical manner.

Today’s hearing aids are much more advanced than in previous years. Due to improvements in micro-electronics, these “mini-computers” are now smaller, lighter and better at processing speech in background noise. Your hearing aids can be individually made for the shape of your ear and specific needs for your hearing loss. Your hearing aid will be programmed through a computer and can be adjusted based on your personal feedback on how things sound to you. Modern hearing aid technology allows audiologists to fit almost anyone with some type of hearing aid technology, regardless of what kind or the severity the hearing loss.

Schedule a complete hearing examination.
If suggested by your audiologist, obtain medical clearance for hearing aids by visiting with a physician.
Schedule an appointment for a hearing aid consultation to discuss rehabilitative options, expectations, hearing aid styles, technology, price, and warranties.
Schedule a fitting and orientation appointment with your audiologist.
Understand and go over your hearing aid purchase agreement the day of your hearing aid fitting.
Complete a trial period. By Colorado law, you are guaranteed a minimum of a 30-day trial period with purchase of hearing aids.
Schedule regular follow-up visits with your audiologist.

Choose to see an audiologist – ask to see credentials!
Avoid aggressive sales tactics
Never buy hearing aids from a door-to-door salesperson, by mail order or the internet
Beware of “bait and switch” tactics
Get a second opinion if you are feeling unsure or pressured
Be confident in your decision by choosing a major manufacturer of hearing aids, typically not ones that send mailings directly to your home

What features would be most helpful to me based on my hearing loss?
Are there any accessories I should know about?
Will the hearing aid work with my cell phone or electronic devices?
What is the total cost of the hearing aid? Does it include programming and follow-up appointments?
How long is the warranty? What does it cover? Can I buy an extended warranty?
What do I do if the hearing aid breaks? Can the audiologist do minor repairs?
What kind of testing is done to make sure the hearing aids are working properly for me?
Is there a trial period for the hearing aids and how long is it? What portion is not refundable if I decide to return the hearing aids?
Are auditory training programs recommended in addition to use of hearing aids?

Everybody’s experience with hearing aids is different and depends on their hearing loss and the professional who fits them. By choosing an audiologist, you are ensuring the best possible expertise with fitting and working with hearing aids. That being said, hearing aids are not a “cure” for hearing loss and will not restore normal hearing. It is important to maintain realistic expectations and discuss these with your audiologist.

Consistent hearing aid use is important in your overall experience with them. In the initial month or two of hearing aid use, the more a hearing aid is worn, the better the brain is able to understand sounds. It is important to continue to wear your hearing aid consistently to be able to help your brain maintain adaptation to sound.

Routine hearing aid maintenance is also important to your overall experience and satisfaction with hearing aids. They are electronic devices that are used daily, therefore, will require routine maintenance in order to function properly.

Visit the Resources page for more information.