The hearing aid fitting appointment may take up to 1 hour. If you are being seen at LRI for a group fitting appointment, your appointment may take slightly longer. At the appointment, the audiologist will fit your ear-mould/slim tube, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit is obtained.
Your hearing aid will then be programmed using your hearing test results, and tests will be performed to ensure your hearing aid is providing the correct level and type of amplification required.
The audiologist will then explain what to expect from using your hearing aid in the short-term and in the long-term.
Lastly the use, care and maintenance of your hearing aid will be explained, and you will receive guidance on how to insert and remove your hearing aid. The opportunity to practice insertion and removal will be given at the appointment.
What should I do when I arrive?
If your appointment is at LRI, please book in using the self-check in system. You will find this in the lobby area as you enter our building. Once checked-in, take a seat in our waiting area and the audiologist will come and call you when it is time for your appointment.
If you have any difficulties checking in, please report to the reception desk where someone will assist you.
If your appointment is not at Leicester Royal Infirmary, please check in at reception or take a seat as indicated. The audiologist will come for you when it is time for your appointment.
What type of hearing aid will I be given?
We provide behind-the-ear digital hearing aids. You will either have an ear mould or a thin tube and dome connected to your hearing aid, this will sit behind your ear. Digital technology allows your hearing aids to be programmed very specifically to your hearing.
INSERT EAR MOULD IMAGE
What if I find it difficult to get used to my hearing aid?
It is likely to take a number of weeks, perhaps even months, before you become fully acclimatised to your hearing aid. This means to begin with, your hearing aid may make everything sound loud, tinny, or un-natural. However, by persevering with your hearing aid, you will be exposing your brain to the sounds around you and the brain will acclimatize to the sound and gradually everything will begin to sound more natural.
What happens next?
A follow-up will be arranged to check your progress with your new hearing aid. This may be a telephone call or a face to face appointment, depending on which is most appropriate.
