What Happens After a Hearing Test? Results, Next Steps and Hearing Care Options

Having a hearing test is only the first part of understanding your hearing.

Once the assessment is complete, the next step is to discuss the results, understand whether any hearing loss has been identified and decide whether anything further needs to happen.

For some people, the outcome may simply provide reassurance and a useful record of their current hearing. For others, the results may identify hearing loss and lead to a discussion about hearing aids, additional support or further assessment.

At Hear Clear NI, the aim is to make sure you understand your results and the options available before making any decisions.

Understanding Your Hearing Test Results

A hearing assessment can provide information about how well you hear different sounds and how clearly you understand speech.

At Hear Clear NI, a private hearing assessment can include an ear health check, pure-tone audiometry and speech-in-noise testing.

Once the tests are complete, the results can be explained in straightforward language so you understand what they mean for your everyday hearing.

You should have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any situations where you are finding hearing particularly difficult.

You can read more about what happens during an assessment on our private hearing tests page.

Does Hearing Loss Always Mean You Need Hearing Aids?

No.

Identifying hearing loss does not automatically mean that hearing aids are required.

The appropriate next step depends on factors such as the degree and type of hearing loss, how it affects your daily life, your listening needs and your personal preferences.

Some people may have relatively mild hearing difficulties that they are comfortable monitoring, while others may find that hearing loss is beginning to affect conversations, work, social situations or communication with family.

The purpose of the assessment is to give you a clearer understanding of your hearing so that you can make an informed decision about what happens next.

What Happens If Further Investigation Is Needed?

Occasionally, hearing-test results or information identified during an assessment may indicate that further investigation would be appropriate.

In this situation, the hearing professional should explain what has been identified and discuss an appropriate next step with you.

This may mean that further assessment or advice from another healthcare professional is appropriate rather than immediately proceeding with hearing aids.

The important point is that hearing care should not simply be about supplying a device. The assessment should help determine what is appropriate for the individual.

Choosing the Right Hearing Solution

If hearing aids may be helpful, the next stage is normally to discuss the different options available.

There are several styles of hearing aid, including receiver-in-canal, behind-the-ear and devices that fit within the ear.

The most suitable option can depend on:

• your hearing-test results;
• the degree of hearing loss;
• your lifestyle and listening environments;
• comfort and dexterity;
• the features you would find useful;
• your preferences regarding size and appearance.

Hear Clear NI is an independent hearing-care provider, which means suitable options can be considered from a range of manufacturers rather than being restricted to one hearing-aid brand.

You can compare the main types of hearing aids available before your appointment.

Can You Try Hearing Aids Before Making a Decision?

Where appropriate, Hear Clear NI offers a free two-week hearing aid trial.

This gives suitable patients an opportunity to experience hearing aids in real everyday situations rather than deciding purely on the basis of a demonstration in the clinic.

During the trial, you may be able to experience how the hearing aids perform in situations such as:

• conversations at home;
• television listening;
• restaurants or cafés;
• group conversations;
• telephone calls;
• outdoor environments.

A trial can also help identify whether adjustments are required before deciding how you would like to proceed.

What Happens After Hearing Aids Are Fitted?

Hearing-aid fitting should not be treated as the end of the process.

Once hearing aids are fitted, it can take time to become accustomed to hearing sounds that may have gradually become less noticeable.

Settings may also need to be adjusted as you gain experience using the devices in everyday situations.

Follow-up support can therefore be an important part of hearing care.

This may involve reviewing how the hearing aids are performing, discussing any difficulties you have experienced and making adjustments where appropriate.

Why Is Hearing Aid Aftercare Important?

Hearing needs can change over time, and the way a hearing aid performs in everyday life may not always be obvious during an initial fitting.

Ongoing aftercare provides an opportunity to review:

• comfort and fit;
• sound quality;
• listening difficulties;
• hearing-aid settings;
• cleaning and maintenance;
• connectivity or app features;
• changes in your hearing.

This continuity of care means you have somewhere to return if something does not feel right or if your listening needs change.

Hear Clear NI also provides information about hearing aid apps and accessories for compatible devices.

How Much Does Hearing Care Cost?

Costs depend on the type of hearing assessment and, if required, the hearing-aid technology selected.

Hear Clear NI publishes its hearing-test fees and hearing-aid price ranges so patients can understand likely costs before making a decision.

You can see the current fees on the hearing aid prices and hearing care costs page.

Price is only one part of choosing hearing care. It is also worth considering what is included in the assessment, fitting, trial period and ongoing support.

Hearing Care at Hear Clear NI

Hear Clear NI provides private hearing assessments and hearing-aid support from clinics in Belfast and Bangor.

The aim is to provide clear advice throughout the process, from the initial assessment through to hearing-aid fitting and ongoing aftercare where required.

If you have noticed a change in your hearing or would like a clearer understanding of your current hearing, the first step is usually a professional assessment.

Find out more about private hearing tests at Hear Clear NI.