Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Hearing Aids

Getting hearing aids represents a significant step toward better hearing and improved quality of life. Yet many people make avoidable mistakes during this process that can limit their success with hearing treatment. Understanding these common pitfalls and how to avoid them can make the difference between struggling with your devices and truly thriving with better hearing.

Choosing Price Over Professional Care

One of the most significant mistakes people make is selecting hearing aids based solely on price rather than the quality of professional care they'll receive. While cost considerations are understandable, focusing exclusively on finding the cheapest option often leads to disappointment.

The value in hearing aids comes not just from the technology itself, but from the expertise of the audiologist fitting and programming them. A hearing aid purchased online or from a big-box retailer may seem like a bargain, but without proper programming and ongoing support, even the most advanced technology will underperform.

We work with all major hearing aid manufacturers and focus on finding the right technology for your specific hearing loss and lifestyle needs. Our approach ensures you receive both quality technology and the professional care necessary to maximize your success.

Skipping the Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation

Many people assume all hearing tests are the same, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Some clinics offer quick screenings that only determine if hearing loss is present, without providing the detailed information needed for optimal treatment.

Our Applied360 Discover consultation takes two hours because we need comprehensive information about your hearing difficulties, lifestyle needs, and the specific characteristics of your hearing loss. This includes speech-in-noise testing, uncomfortable loudness level measurements, and a thorough review of your medical history. Without this detailed foundation, it's impossible to select the right hearing aids or program them correctly.

Rushing through this initial evaluation is like building a house on a weak foundation—everything that follows will be compromised.

Not Bringing a Communication Partner

We strongly recommend bringing your spouse, family member, or close friend to your hearing aid consultation. Many people attend alone, missing out on valuable insights their loved ones can provide about their hearing challenges.

Your communication partners notice things you might not be aware of, such as how often you ask for repetition, situations where you struggle most, or changes in your social behavior due to hearing difficulties. This outside perspective helps us better understand your real-world hearing needs and creates more effective treatment recommendations.

Expecting Instant Perfection

One of the biggest mistakes new hearing aid users make is expecting their devices to work perfectly from day one. The brain needs time to readjust to sounds it hasn't processed clearly in months or years. Some people become frustrated during this adaptation period and give up too quickly.

This is why our Applied360 Fit program spans 45 days with four structured appointments. Each visit allows us to make adjustments based on your real-world experiences while your brain adapts to better hearing. We gradually progress you toward your full prescription while optimizing digital features along the way.

Patients who understand that hearing aid success is a process, not an instant fix, consistently achieve better long-term results.

Accepting "Close Enough" Programming

Many hearing aid users settle for programming that makes sounds louder without ensuring optimal speech clarity. This happens when clinics rely on manufacturer first-fit settings instead of verifying that the devices are programmed correctly for your specific hearing loss.

We perform Real Ear Measurement during every hearing aid fitting to verify that your devices are providing the exact amount of amplification needed across all frequency ranges. This scientific verification process ensures your hearing aids are programmed to your prescription, not just manufacturer estimates. Without this step, you may experience improved volume but still struggle with speech understanding, especially in noisy environments.

Neglecting Follow-Up Care

After getting hearing aids, some people adopt a "set it and forget it" mentality, only returning to their provider when problems arise. This reactive approach often leads to gradual performance decline that goes unnoticed until it becomes significant.

Our Applied360 Thrive program provides proactive follow-up care throughout your first year. We schedule regular appointments to monitor your hearing aid performance, perform preventative maintenance, and make adjustments as your hearing or needs change. This approach prevents small issues from becoming major problems and ensures you maintain optimal performance over time.

Regular professional maintenance extends the life of your hearing aids and keeps them functioning at their best.

Ignoring Cleaning and Maintenance

Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices exposed to earwax, moisture, and daily wear. Many users don't realize that proper at-home maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

During your fitting process, we teach you proper cleaning techniques and provide the tools needed to maintain your devices. We also perform professional maintenance at regular intervals, which includes deep cleaning and diagnostic testing to ensure your hearing aids continue meeting manufacturer specifications.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance, frequent repairs, and shortened device lifespan.

Not Using Available Technology Features

Modern hearing aids include numerous features designed to improve your hearing experience, but many users never learn to take advantage of these capabilities. Smartphone apps, wireless accessories, and advanced programming options can significantly enhance your success with hearing aids.

We take time during your fitting sequence to set up wireless connectivity, demonstrate app functionality, and discuss accessories that might benefit your lifestyle. Whether it's streaming phone calls directly to your hearing aids or using a remote microphone in challenging listening situations, understanding these features maximizes your investment.

Choosing Style Over Function

Some people prioritize having the smallest, most invisible hearing aids possible without considering whether that style can adequately treat their hearing loss. While discretion is important, the most critical factor is selecting devices capable of providing the amplification and features you need.

We help you balance cosmetic preferences with functional requirements. Sometimes a slightly larger device provides significantly better performance, making it worth the minor difference in visibility.

Not Planning for the Future

Hearing loss typically progresses over time, but many people choose hearing aids based only on their current needs. This short-sighted approach can lead to devices becoming inadequate sooner than necessary.

When recommending hearing aids, we consider not just your present hearing loss but also your likely future needs. Selecting technology with adequate power reserves and advanced features ensures your devices can adapt as your hearing changes.

Taking the Next Step Toward Better Hearing

Avoiding these common mistakes starts with choosing the right hearing healthcare provider. Our Applied360 approach addresses each of these potential pitfalls through comprehensive evaluation, proper fitting procedures, and ongoing support.

From our detailed Applied360 Discover consultation through our structured Applied360 Fit program and proactive Applied360 Thrive follow-up care, we've designed our process to maximize your success while avoiding the mistakes that limit other people's hearing aid experiences.

Ready to start your hearing journey the right way? Contact Applied Hearing Solutions at (602) 877-0000 to schedule your Applied360 Discover consultation with one of our experienced audiologists. We'll take the time needed to understand your unique needs and create a treatment plan designed for long-term success.