What You Should Expect From Your Hearing Aid Dispenser
By Ross, Mark; Hearing Loss Magazine, Vol. 30, No. 6, pp. 28-31Publication Date: November-December 2009
Article outlines the process of selecting a hearing aid based on guidelines published by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Academy of Audiology (AAA). Hearing aid selection should encompass (1) an interview by the hearing aid dispenser to provide insight into the impact of the hearing loss on the affected individual, often supplemented by a self-report questionnaire, completed by the client, to assess the psychosocial and communicative impact of the hearing loss; (2) a comprehensive audiology exam, not limited to a pure-tone audiogram, to determine the type and extent of the hearing loss, including the ability to comprehend speech in noise, and to measure loudness discomfort levels (LDL); (3) recommendation of the hearing aid, for which the dispenser should consider the results of the audiometric tests as well as the client's communication needs, personal preferences, cosmetic sensitivities, and ability to manipulate hearing aid controls; (4) demonstration and training in the use of the hearing aid, including the client's understanding of the operation of the device and demonstrated ability to insert the hearing aids correctly, change batteries, and manipulate volume control, preferably supplemented with printed information material; and (5) scheduled follow-up visits, one or more as needed during the 30- to 60-day trial period, and at least two more visits during the following year, to make any needed adjustments.
Published by: Hearing Loss Association of America (formerly Self Help for Hard of Hearing People) (Website:http://www.hearingloss.org)
