Information on the internet about hearing aids can be confusing and overwhelming, but an Audiologist who is confident and knowledgeable will help you through the hearing aid buying process. Here are some questions that you should ask:
1. Do the hearing aids come with a trial period?
Yes, and some clinics even offer a free trial period. Hearing clinics often provide weeks or months of hearing aid trial, but ask whether there are non-refundable fees if you choose to return your hearing aids during the trial period.
2. Which hearing aid features will be most beneficial for me?
Your Audiologist should be able to link features of a hearing aid to the listening environments that are important to you and provide information about assistive technology that will improve your experience.
TV units, remote microphones & smart device connectivity are all examples of assistive technology.
3. How will you ensure the hearing aids are a good fit for me?
The Audiologist will consider several things before selecting a hearing aid for you. For example, can you see clearly or do you have vision loss? Can you handle small objects like buttons and zippers or do you have trouble with arthritis?
At the time of your fitting, hearing aids should be carefully adjusted to meet your needs. For instance, it is best practice to verify that hearing aids meet your prescription targets using real-ear measures. I do not recommend working with someone who relies on a hearing aid manufacturer’s “first fit”, does not use real-ear measures, or (even worse) does not know what real-ear measures are.
4. What is the total cost of the hearing aid and what is included in that cost?
Hearing aids may come with 3 to 5 years of repair warranty, a loss and damage warranty, free batteries, free accessories, and a service package including unlimited appointments, in-clinic hearing aid repairs, and hearing aid maintenance.
Some of these warranties and services may be stripped away to reduce the up-front cost of the hearing aid, but BEWARE…you may end up paying the same or even more in the long run.
Ask what (if any) additional costs you should expect over the lifetime of the hearing aid.
5. What are my payment options?
Not all hearing clinics require payment at the time of your hearing aid fitting. For example, they may offer free trials, financing, leasing, and even sometimes interest-free financing options.
Check before trialing your hearing aids to make sure you are comfortable with the available payment options.
6. What happens if my hearing aids stop working?
Your Audiologist should be able to fit you with a loaner if your hearing aid needs to be sent away for repair.
If hearing aids need to be sent out for repair it can take weeks. Make sure that you’ll have something to use while you wait.