This is Part II of the following piece
Another big piece of the puzzle is who you work with to get the hearing aids. This can be an audiologist’s office, a hearing aid dispenser at a retail store, or even an online service for some OTC devices. Choosing the right provider can save you lots of headache. Here’s what to look for:
- Professional Credentials and Expertise: You want someone who knows what they’re doing. In the hearing world, that usually means an audiologist (with an Au.D. or Ph.D. in audiology) or a highly experienced hearing instrument specialist. Audiologists have extensive training in hearing disorders and device fitting . Hearing instrument specialists are licensed to test hearing and fit aids, though with more limited scope. Check that the provider is licensed in your state, and ideally look for any extra certifications (like CCC-A for audiologists or BC-HIS for hearing specialists) . Why all this? Because hearing aids are medical devices that need proper fitting and programming – an expert will personalize the settings to your parent’s audiogram and adjust for things like ear shape and “real ear” acoustics. In fact, one clinic found that 90% of hearing aid success comes down to the professional fitting them . That’s huge! A skilled provider will also counsel your parent on how to use and care for the aids. This support is priceless, especially for a first-time user.
- Independent and Unbiased Advice: This one is a bit industry-insider, but it’s good to know. Some hearing aid centers are actually chains or franchises owned by manufacturers (for example, Miracle-Ear or Beltone shops). They typically sell only their own brand of hearing aids. This doesn’t automatically mean bad service, but it does limit your choices. An independent provider (one not tied to a single manufacturer) can offer devices from multiple brands and pick the one that suits your parent best . You’ll get a more unbiased recommendation that way . Think of it like car shopping: a dealership that sells all makes vs. the one that only sells Brand X. More options usually mean a better match for your needs. So ask if they carry different brands or if they’re a franchise. You want someone who will fit your parent with the right aid, rather than forcing a particular brand on everyone.
- Comprehensive Aftercare and Services: Getting the hearing aids is just the beginning. Good providers offer ongoing care to make sure those aids keep working well. This can include follow-up appointments to fine-tune settings, routine cleanings, annual hearing re-tests, and servicing or repairs if something goes wrong . When you purchase hearing aids from a clinic, ask what’s included in the package. For example, many include free adjustments for the first year or two, and maybe free supplies like batteries or filters. Some might offer bundled service plans. Why does this matter? Hearing aids might need small tweaks as your parent gets used to them or if their hearing changes over time . If a provider just sells the device and sends you off without support, that’s a red flag. Look for a provider that treats this as a long-term relationship, not a one-time sale.
- Trial Periods and Return Policy: We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth emphasizing. Make sure there’s a clear trial period. Most states require at least a 30-day window by law, and reputable places often give 45 or 60 days. During this time, you should be able to return the hearing aids for a refund or exchange (sometimes minus a small restocking fee) if it’s not working out . Confirm the details: How long is the trial? What percentage refund if returned? Also, check the warranty on the devices – standard is about 2-3 years covering defects or repairs. You want to know who handles warranty repairs (does the provider service it in-house, or send it to the manufacturer, and do they give you a loaner in the meantime?). A strong trial/return policy protects you and your parent – it shows the provider is confident in their fittings and won’t trap you if things go awry. As a rule of thumb, avoid anyone who doesn’t offer a return period. And be wary of too-good-to-be-true sales pitches like “today only discount” or sketchy “clinical trial” offers from mail flyers . Reputable providers don’t need gimmicks; they let you test the product properly.
- Reputation and Longevity: Finally, do a little homework on the provider’s reputation. Check online reviews or ask for testimonials if they have any. Consistently positive feedback about patient care and service is a good sign . You can also ask your family doctor or friends if they recommend someone (word of mouth can be gold here). Also consider how long they’ve been in business. An established clinic that’s been around for years likely isn’t going to disappear next month. This matters because you’ll want them around for follow-up and maintenance. (Most hearing aids last around 5–7 years before they might need replacement , so ideally the provider will still be there to help through the life of the device.) By contrast, be cautious if a place just popped up recently with unbelievably low prices – if they shut down, you’re on your own for support. In short, choose a provider you feel you can trust. When you visit, you should feel that they listen to your concerns, treat your parent with patience and respect, and aren’t just pushing for a sale.
Wrapping Up: Helping Your Parent Hear Better With Confidence
I know we covered a lot of ground – from audiograms to tiny batteries to trial periods. But here’s the big takeaway: the more you understand your parent’s unique hearing needs, the better your chances of finding a hearing aid that truly improves their life. None of these challenges are insurmountable. Armed with knowledge (and maybe a bit of patience), you can avoid the common pitfalls that leave so many devices unused in drawers. Instead, you’ll select a hearing aid that fits just right and a provider who stands by your family through the journey.
Imagine the moment when your mom laughs at a joke she couldn’t hear before, or when your dad finally stops blasting the TV because he can hear it clearly at a normal volume. Those moments are golden. They’re the reason we navigated all these details. And trust me, when you see your parent engaging in conversations again, eyes lighting up because they’re part of the world of sound, you’ll know it was worth the effort.
So, don’t be discouraged by the complexity – feel empowered. You now have a roadmap: get the right information, involve your parent, insist on good care. You’ve got this! And if you ever feel unsure, remember there are hearing professionals (like my fictional self) who are happy to guide you. We’ve heard it all before (bad pun intended), and we’re on your side. Here’s to clearer conversations and a happier, hearing-connected life for your mom or dad!