50+ Lifestyles

Ask the Audiologist

By Kevin Kock, Au.D.
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

How often should I see my audiologist for hearing aid cleaning and programming?

As a licensed doctor of audiology, patients often ask me what follow-up looks like and when to have us clean their hearing aids. Regular check-ups and adjustments for your hearing aids help make sure they are working their best to give you the best hearing experience possible.

While individual needs may vary, I recommend hearing aids be checked approximately every 6 months. When patients visit their audiologist, they assist with cleaning, maintenance, and addressing any minor issues before they become an even bigger problem. If you are someone who cleans their hearing aids regularly and takes good care of them, then an annual visit may work fine.

Just like maintenance on a car helps it run better, cleaning your hearing aid is a crucial part of hearing aid care. Your audiologist should have taught you things to help clean them, such as changing the domes or filters. If you are struggling to remember how to clean them, please ask your audiologist for help! Cleaning is important because dust, earwax, and other debris can gather in and around the hearing aids. This will make them sound weak or “dead.” As audiologists, we are trained to maintain your device and check for any issues with sound quality. We also have tools that can help us get a more thorough cleaning of your hearing aids.

In addition to cleaning, many hearing aids can have their prescription adjusted. If you have changes in your hearing, it may be possible to better optimize their settings based on your evolving needs. Most people benefit from programming adjustments every 1 to 2 years. However, if you notice changes in your hearing or have concerns about the performance of your hearing aids, it is recommended to seek adjustments sooner.

While hearing aids must be adjusted periodically, I often recommend getting them cleaned first. Cleaning typically helps fix common issues related to debris. The audiologist might also perform minor repairs on the hearing aids or may recommend sending them to the manufacturer for repair. But, if the sound quality hasn’t improved, hearing testing might be needed to get an accurate picture of any possible changes. The hearing aids then may be re-prescribed. Many patients report that their hearing aids “sound like new” after a new prescription is programmed.

If you are having issues with the sound of your hearing aids, it is very important to talk with your audiologist. Often, hearing aid issues can be resolved within an appointment or two. Working closely with them ensures that you receive personalized care for your unique hearing needs. Communicating openly about your experiences and any challenges you face with your hearing aids is key. This information helps the audiologist understand your specific concerns, enabling them to make precise adjustments for a better hearing outcome.

Regular communication with your audiologist builds a partnership in your hearing health journey. Whether it’s expressing changes in your hearing, discussing any hearing aid discomfort, or seeking advice on improving your listening experience, open communication empowers both you and your audiologist to work together effectively. By actively working with your audiologist, you ensure that your hearing aids continue to meet your needs and provide clear, comfortable sound.

Kevin Kock is an audiologist at Audiology Consultants, P.C. For more information, visit audiologyconsultants.com. Stores are located in Davenport, IA, Muscatine, IA, Moline, IL, and Geneseo, IL.