Hearing Evaluation

Hearing Evaluation - Adirondack Audiology

A hearing evaluation involves several important steps. If you think you might need a hearing aid, the first thing to do is get a hearing evaluation. During this evaluation, a case history will be collected to understand how your hearing issue affects your daily life and your family's life. You'll provide a complete history, answering questions regarding when and how the hearing loss began, any ringing in your ears (tinnitus), and if you're experiencing dizziness. You may also need to answer some basic questions about your overall health history.

The findings from your hearing test will help the hearing care professional see which sounds you may not be hearing, but your personal insights about your daily life and how you perceive your hearing are crucial for a thorough evaluation. If you're a candidate for hearing aids, you might be referred to a medical doctor who specializes in ear disorders or if your hearing professional thinks there are other health issues that should be looked at before recommending hearing aids. This referral can often be a key first step in the process of examining hearing aid options.

If your hearing test indicates a permanent hearing loss, your hearing professional may suggest a hearing aid for one or both ears. They will discuss which sounds you are missing and how a hearing aid can assist you. During this appointment, you'll typically have the opportunity to see and handle various types of hearing aids. In some instances, you might even have a chance to try one out. Your hearing professional will guide you in selecting the most suitable hearing aid style, features, and level of technology based on your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget. Ultimately, the decision on which hearing aid to buy is yours.

After you decide, the hearing professional might take molds of your ears if you chose custom or behind-the-ear models that need earmolds. Hearing aids usually need to be ordered from a manufacturer and then programmed by your hearing professional to address your specific hearing needs. This process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, so it’s important not to feel disappointed if your hearing aids are not ready on the same day as your evaluation.

Are You Ready To Hear Better?

Concerned that you, or someone you love, may be struggling with hearing loss? Contact us to learn how we can help!