Hearing Aids
When permanent hearing loss is diagnosed, hearing aids are often the most effective way to improve communication and quality of life. Choosing and adjusting to hearing aids is a big step forward, and we’ll work with you at each stage to make it as smooth as possible.
Pre-fitting Counselling
Counselling plays a crucial role in preparing you to take positive actions to improve your hearing, particularly if you are new to hearing aids. Our focus is to:
- Help you understand your hearing loss and how it affects your daily interaction
- Discuss your specific hearing needs
- Help you understand how hearing aids can improve your ability to hear and communicate in daily life
Once we have a clear understanding of your hearing priority and challenges, we can then explore hearing aid options that best suit your lifestyle and communication needs.
Hearing Aid Selection
Hearing aid selection involves careful consideration of many personal and clinical factors. Several factors influence the choice of hearing aid, including:
- The type and degree of hearing loss
- Shape and condition of the ear canal
- Dexterity and handling ability
- Typical listening environments (quiet, noisy, group settings, etc.)
- Presence of other symptoms such as tinnitus
- Appearance and discretion preferences
- Desire for wireless features and connectivity
- Budget and funding options
Involving Communication Partners:
Having a significant communication partner, such as a family member or close friend, can be incredibly valuable in understanding your hearing needs and supporting you throughout the process. We encourage you to bring them along to your appointments, as their involvement can enhance outcomes and provide additional support.
The Fitting Process: Technology & Support
The fitting process is a step-by-step approach that combines technical adjustments with personalised counselling to ensure the best possible hearing outcome.
- Technical Setup: Your hearing aids will be programmed using specialised software, customised to match your hearing profile and personal preferences.
- Real-World Trial & Fine-Tuning: After the hearing aids are programmed, you’ll start using them in everyday situations. Your feedback during follow-up appointments is vital for fine-tuning the settings and achieving the best possible performance.
- Flexible Approach: Sometimes, it may be necessary to explore alternative fitting strategies or reconsider the choice of hearing aids to find a better solution.
- Follow-up Care & Maintenance: We offer ongoing support with device cleaning, troubleshooting, hearing checks, and reviewing your hearing goals to ensure your hearing aids continue to meet your needs over time.
Funding Options for Hearing Aids:
- Eligible pensioners and veterans can access fully subsidised hearing aids through the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP).
- Hearing aid assessments and devices related to work-related hearing issues may be covered under WorkCover or Workers' Compensation claims.
- Depending on your private health insurance, you may also be eligible for rebates on hearing aids.