How Often Should I See the Audiologist When Wearing Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are a lifeline to clearer communication and an enhanced quality of life for those with hearing loss. Like any sophisticated device, they require regular maintenance and professional check-ups to ensure they function optimally, and the audiologists at Sound Advice Hearing Doctors in MO, AR, and OK are here to ensure you can get that. The question is: how frequently should you visit your audiologist when you have hearing aids? Here’s a general guide to help you understand the importance of follow-up visits.
Frequency of Hearing Tests
After being fitted with hearing aids, it’s essential to keep track of your hearing ability. Audiologists generally recommend you have a hearing test once a year. However, if you notice any changes in your hearing or your hearing aid doesn’t seem as effective, don’t wait for your annual appointment. Schedule a visit as soon as possible.
Hearing Aid Maintenance
To keep your hearing aids in prime condition, cleanings and tune-ups performed by your audiologist are necessary. Over time, earwax and other debris can accumulate on your device, potentially hindering its performance. Device manufacturers recommend a cleaning and maintenance schedule you should follow. You can do some of this at home, while others might require the expertise of an audiologist. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s a good idea to get your hearing aids professionally cleaned every four to six months.
Hearing Aid Programming
If your hearing aids are programmable or you have digital hearing aids, periodic reprogramming may be necessary to align them with any changes in your hearing. Typically, this might occur annually, but this schedule can vary based on your specific needs. Tweaks and reprogramming are most common during the initial trial period as you get used to wearing a new device.
Reasons for Adjustments
Even if you’ve successfully worn your hearing aids for a year or longer, you might notice a difference in their performance. You should schedule an appointment with your hearing care professional whenever this happens. Several factors may necessitate a hearing aid adjustment or an updated hearing test, such as:
- Changes in your hearing ability
- Discomfort or feedback from the hearing aid
- Lifestyle changes that influence the type of sound amplification needed
- Technological upgrades or advances in hearing aid enhancement
Signs for Replacement
Today’s hearing aids are technological wonders that are smaller and produced better than those worn decades ago, but they don’t last forever. On average, devices last about three to seven years. Be on the lookout for signs that your hearing aids may need to be replaced, such as:
- Frequent malfunctions
- Constant discomfort
- Feeling that the hearing aid is not amplifying sound like it used to
If you’re using in-the-ear hearing aids or behind-the-ear hearing aids and experiencing these issues, discuss potential upgrades with your audiologist.
Types of Maintenance by Audiologists
Audiologists offer a variety of maintenance services that keep your hearing aids in the ear — or behind them — functioning correctly. Adjusting the fit, cleaning tubes and microphones, and repairing or replacing broken components are all standard procedures that can be performed at our hearing care center. Most modern hearing aids have rechargeable batteries to remove the hassle of constantly changing disposable batteries. However, the rechargeable batteries will occasionally have to be replaced while owning the device.
Keep Up with Visits to Your Hearing Care Professional
Invest in the longevity and effectiveness of your hearing aids by scheduling regular visits with your hearing care professional. With proper care, cleaning, and reprogramming, your hearing aids can continue to provide the benefits you’ve come to rely on for your daily communication needs. Remember, your audiologist is a partner in your auditory health, so use their expertise to maintain your hearing aids at peak performance.
Schedule a Free Hearing Test
Whether you’re a seasoned hearing aid user or someone who’s recently started, recognizing the importance of regular check-ups is crucial. Maintain a schedule at Sound Advice Hearing Doctors in MO, AR, or OK that aligns with your individual auditory situation, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us in between regular appointments for any concerns or changes in your hearing. Your hearing is vital, so it’s important to treat it with care. Find one of our locations near you to schedule a free hearing evaluation for a professional assessment.
