7 Significant Essentials to Take to a Hearing Test

When you want better hearing, scheduling a hearing test is the first step.

Simple preparations ahead of the appointment can help the audiologist better understand your needs, which has to be worth sparing a little time on. Here are seven suggested essentials to take to a hearing test.

#1: Plenty of time

Schedule the hearing test for a time when you’re not rushed and can take your time. Expect the appointment to take at least an hour, and plan accordingly.

Perhaps this seems a long time, but in addition to the actual hearing assessment, the audiologist needs to get to know you and your hearing difficulties, so they can plan the best way to correct it. This means chatting about your hobbies and interests, and creating a rapport, which isn’t a quick thing.

#2: Medical History

On a practical level, remember to take a note of any medications taken and where possible a copy of your medical history. This is so the audiologist is aware of any physical conditions or medications which could have a potential impact on your hearing health.

#3: Insurance Documents

Similarly, take along any relevant health insurance documentation. Not all policies cover hearing health, but if yours does, then the audiologist will be happy to advise you further. Also, if you are covered, taking a claims form with you will speed up seeking reimbursement.

#4: An Idea of where you Struggle

You may be aware of your impaired hearing. Where does this impact your life the most? Perhaps you struggle to converse when there’s lots of intrusive background noise. Maybe you’ve noticed to struggle to keep up with the speed of conversation.

Whatever circumstances cause you the most difficulty, try to zero in on it and let the audiologist know. Again, this is great information to know when it comes to correctly the problem.

#5: A Friend

Guess what: Two pairs of ears are better than one.

Most audiologists encourage patients to take a friend or family member along to the appointment. This makes ultimate good sense, because if you were hearing well you wouldn’t need the exam. A second pair of ears means someone else is paying attention and may catch significant details that you didn’t quite pick up on.

#6: A List of Questions

It’s not unusual once you’re face to face with the audiologist to have all those burning questions fly out of your head. We’ve all done it, at one time or another.

The solution is simple. Brainstorm ahead of the appointment and jot down any questions you want answered.

#7: An Open Mind

Last, but not least, let the audiologist guide you as to the best way ahead. Listen to their advice as experts in the field, and carefully weigh up the pros and cons of the action plan suggested.