Treatment Steps

Self-report measurements

Stage 1. Assessment for treatment planning

• • We encourage every client to complete questionnaires related to hearing difficulties and communication needs to determine the best treatments for hearing loss.

    We help establish realistic expectations and select and prioritize technology.

Stage 2. Assessing the benefits of the fitted hearing aids in the real world.

• • How our treatment improves your life:

  • Did the treatment improve your communication ability?

  • Did we meet all of the goals we set at the beginning of the treatment?

Hearing aid fitting 

We ensure that your hearing aids are comfortable, effective, and long-lasting. You will learn how to manage and care for your hearing aids. This appointment includes two parts:

Part 1: Fitting

Step 1: Otoscopic exam to observe the condition of the ear canal and eardrum.

Step 2: A properly programmed hearing aid will be placed in your ear to confirm:

• Loud sounds are not uncomfortably loud.
• No acoustic feedback (whistling) is present.
• Proper fit of the hearing aids (not too loose or tight).
• You will be taught how to insert the hearing aids yourself.

Step 3: Discussion on how hearing aids work, including the functions of the main parts.

Step 4: Discussion on batteries or using a recharger:

• Type and size of batteries.
• Estimated battery life.
• Proper insertion demonstration.
• Warning signs of weakening batteries.
• Battery storage.
• Safety measures for children and pets.
• Placing inside the charger.
• Charging duration.
• Light indication.

Step 5: Discussion on how to use hearing aids:

• Demonstration of using the hearing aids with a phone.
• Demonstration of using the programs and volume control.
• Demonstration of using the T-coil (if applicable).

Step 6: Discussion on the earmold or domes:

• Explanation of the three main functions: anchoring, directing sound into the ear, and preventing feedback.
• Insertion demonstration.
• Care of the earmold and domes.
• Replacement of tubing on the ear hook (if applicable).

Step 7: Discussion on maintenance and care of hearing aids.

Step 8: Providing paperwork:

• Warranties.
• Invoice.
• Instructional brochure.

Part 2: Verification of Accurate Fitting

New hearing aids must ensure that soft sounds are audible, speech sounds are comfortable, and loud sounds are not too loud.

A small flexible tube will be placed in your ear canal together with the hearing aid.

We will measure the sound level in the ear canal to determine whether the hearing aid user is receiving the precise level of amplification needed at every frequency for the best hearing improvement possible.

We will adjust each sound to the targets to ensure accurate fitting.

Follow-up care – Continuing aftercare

Sounds have emotional associations, and we each have personal preferences for certain sounds. Some sounds we like, and others we dislike.

Even if your hearing aids are fitted to target the best performance, you may have your own idea of comfortable hearing. We will adjust your hearing aids to match your preferred comfort level. Usually, the best results come over the course of two to three follow-up visits.

We provide periodic checks on the performance of hearing aids. For example, microphone ports can easily become clogged with debris, reducing directionality. We suggest our clients return to the office at least twice per year for testing and cleaning their hearing aids. This helps us monitor any unnoticed changes in the client’s hearing or in the performance of their hearing aids.

Our clients will be invited for an annual hearing re-evaluation.

CONNECTIVITY AND APPS

Today’s hearing aids are not only personal communication devices but also gateways to enjoying media.

We will help you connect your cell phone, TV, computer, iPod, etc., with your hearing aids.

We will assist our clients in learning how to operate their hearing aids with minimal effort.

We will teach our clients how to control their hearing aids using an app.

With a smartphone, you can:

• Stream phone calls, music, and other media into the hearing aids using Bluetooth (available on iPhones and the latest models of Android phones).
• Control all the standard functions of a hearing aid, such as volume control, programs, and directionality.
• Use it as an instruction booklet.
• Manage tinnitus with a range of sound therapy options that can be streamed into the hearing aids.
• Use it as a fall detection and heart rate monitor.
• Find a lost hearing aid.
• Rate satisfaction or the performance of the hearing aid.
• Control your lights, home alarm, or smart thermostat.
• Manage your daily activities and fitness.