Questions to Ask the Audiologist

If you have an appointment for a hearing test, you have many things on your mind. To help you make sure all your questions are answered, make a list of the questions you want to ask. Then take your list with you to the appointment. Take a friend as well and share your list of questions in advance. This guide should help you prepare the questions you want to ask the audiologist.

Questions about hearing loss

If the results of your hearing tests indicate that you have hearing loss, you should ask the following questions:

• What type of hearing loss do I have?
• Will my hearing loss get worse, stay the same or can my hearing be restored?
• Can I pass my hearing loss on to my children?
• What caused my hearing loss?
• How can I protect my remaining hearing?
• Do I need to make lifestyle changes? Is it still safe for me to drive?
• What can I do to help me adapt to my hearing loss?
• Should I learn lip reading?
• How do I tell my family about my hearing loss?
• How can I communicate better with my family and friends?
• Will hearing aids or a cochlear implant help me hear better?

Questions to ask about hearing aids

Based on the level and type of hearing loss you have and taking into consideration your lifestyle and dexterity, the audiologist will recommend the best style of hearing aid for you. The smallest hearing aid may not provide enough amplification if you have profound hearing loss. In-the-ear models may be easier for you to operate if you have dexterity issues. Be sure to ask the audiologist these questions about hearing aids.

• What type of hearing aid technology will help me the most?
• What type of hearing aid do I need?
• Do I need to wear one or two hearing aids?
• How much will my hearing aids cost?
• What is the warranty period and what does the warranty cover?
• How long will my hearing aids last?
• What happens if I need a repair?
• What happens if I don’t like the hearing aids or if they don’t work?

Think of the audiologist as your personal hearing aide. The audiologist is trained and ready to help you continue to live a full life with hearing loss. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask the audiologist to explain any answer so you better understand your hearing loss and the technology that can help you hear better