The Importance of Follow-Up Hearing Aid Care

March 7, 2025

“If the hearing aids are programmed for my hearing loss, why do I need to come for follow up appointments? They either work or they don’t.” 

The answer: Hearing healthcare is a journey. Hearing loss needs to be monitored. Hearing aids need to be cared for. Clients need ongoing review and education as their use of the hearing aids and needs or wants change and evolve (which they certainly do). 

The amazing thing about hearing aids is that there is (more often than not) room to grow, change and adapt with you.  But how do you or your hearing care provider know if you do not make time for each other? 

Follow-up appointments after hearing aid fittings are crucial for ensuring that the devices are working optimally and meeting your needs. Here are some reasons why follow-ups are important:

1. Device Adjustment

• Fine-tuning: Hearing aids may need adjustments after they are initially fit. Everyone's hearing is unique, and it may take time to find the best settings for clarity and comfort. Hearing aids are also often set lower for new users and are increased incrementally to their ideal programming as the client’s brain adjusts to the new sound.

• Sound Quality: Sometimes, users may feel that the sound is too loud, too soft, or not clear enough. Follow-up appointments allow hearing care providers to tweak the settings for optimal sound quality. Subjective preferences are still vital to the process.

2. Comfort and Fit

• Physical Comfort: If the hearing aid isn't fitting properly (e.g., it's too tight, too loose, or causing irritation), follow-ups allow adjustments to be made to ensure comfort.

• Ear Mold Adjustments: For those using custom earmolds, follow-ups help ensure that the molds fit snugly and comfortably, preventing discomfort or feedback issues.

3. Learning to Use the Hearing Aids

• Adjustment Period: It can take some time to get used to wearing hearing aids, especially for first-time users. Follow-ups provide an opportunity for professional guidance on how to adapt to new sounds and how to properly use the device. People need to hear information multiple times for it to stick with them, no matter who you are.

• Behavioral Tips: Hearing care providers can offer advice on how to get the most out of the devices, like tips for listening in different environments or how to troubleshoot issues.

4. Device Maintenance

• Cleaning and Maintenance: Regular follow-up appointments allow the practitioner to clean the hearing aids, check for any damage, and ensure that the devices are functioning correctly.

• Part replacements: Professionals can check if parts like receivers, tubing, filters etc. need to be replaced in the clinic.

• Firmware updates: Many hearing aids have firmware updates that are activated when hooked up to the software in the clinic.

5. Addressing Problems

• Troubleshooting: If users experience issues such as distortion, feedback, or malfunctioning, follow-ups provide an opportunity to diagnose and fix these problems.

• Monitoring Hearing Loss: Follow-ups help track any changes in hearing ability over time. If hearing loss progresses, hearing aids can be adjusted or replaced to accommodate new hearing needs. In more serious circumstances, identification of anomalies that need to be explored further with your physician. 

6. User Support and Counseling for the Client and their Support Systems

• Emotional Support: Adjusting to hearing aids can be an emotional process for some people, especially if hearing loss is related to aging or medical conditions. Regular check-ins allow users to express concerns and receive support from professionals.

• Hearing Aid Education: Follow-up appointments are a chance for hearing aid users to ask questions and gain further education about the proper care and use of the devices.

7. Hearing Aid Performance Over Time

• Performance Evaluation: Over time, the technology in hearing aids improves, or users may experience changes in their hearing. Follow-ups can help ensure that hearing aids continue to meet their needs as technology evolves or their hearing changes.

In short, follow-up appointments are key for ensuring that hearing aids are effective, comfortable, and tailored to the user’s evolving needs. These visits help prevent issues from becoming bigger problems and provide ongoing support to improve the overall experience with hearing aids. Check out this awesome video to learn more!

So….don’t be a stranger! Contact us today if we have not seen you in a while, there is always something to talk about.  

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No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.