Hearing tests
Hearing tests in Alberta are usually done by a hearing healthcare provider called an
audiologist.
Medical concern
If you need a hearing test because of a medical concern—like sudden hearing loss—the test may be done at a community health or public health centre. You will need an Alberta Personal Healthcare Card.
No medical concern
If you need a hearing test because of a gradual change in hearing and there is no other medical concern, you can go to a private hearing clinic. Some health insurance companies, such as Alberta Blue Cross, will cover the cost.
At a private clinic, the test may be done by an audiologist or a
hearing aid practitioner.
After a hearing test
Once the hearing test is done, the hearing healthcare provider will talk with you about the results and make sure you understand them.
The hearing healthcare provider will then talk with you to understand your hearing goals.
Based on the hearing test and your hearing goals, the hearing healthcare provider will make recommendations just for you. They may include:
- communication strategies
- hearing technology (like hearing aids)
- medical follow-up
- tinnitus support
- changes you can make at home to help you hear better
You and the hearing healthcare provider will work together. They will help you choose the options that will work best for you.
Before buying hearing aids
Here are things to think about before buying hearing aids.
Trust
Make sure you’re comfortable with and trust your audiologist or hearing aid practitioner. It’s OK to ask questions and see more than 1 person. This way, you can choose the best hearing healthcare provider for you.
Price
Hearing aid prices vary depending on the technology, accessories, and other services and warranties that may be included. Things to consider are:
- remote controls
- Bluetooth connectivity for phones or TV
- battery-operated versus rechargeable hearing aids
- extended warranties
Be sure you know everything that is included in the full price before you buy.
Batteries
Some hearing aids use disposable batteries. In some clinics, the cost of these batteries is included in the price of the hearing aids. If batteries are not included, you will need to pay for them as an ongoing cost for as long as you have the device.
Other hearing aids are rechargeable. These models do not need disposable batteries—you simply charge them each day, and you never need to replace the batteries.
Funding
Some people may be eligible for funding for hearing aids. If you think this applies to you, talk about it with your hearing healthcare provider.
Technology
Hearing aids may seem the same, but the technology inside them can be very different. The right choice of hearing aid depends on
what you want to hear better. For example, do you want to improve your hearing for family conversations, work meetings, social events, or quieter one-on-one chats?
Talk with your hearing healthcare provider about your hearing goals. Together, you can choose the technology that is best for you.
Trial period
Most hearing aids come with a minimum 1‑month trial period. During this time, be sure to check in with your hearing healthcare provider, either in person or over the phone. These check-ins help fine‑tune your hearing aids to make sure they are meeting your hearing goals.
If you have any problems or questions during the trial period, contact the clinic where you bought your hearing aids right away. Early support can prevent small issues from becoming big frustrations so you get the best possible results with your hearing aids.
Risks
There can be risks with buying used hearing aids or buying hearing aids online, for example:
The hearing aids may not be customized for your hearing levels.
You may not get professional support.
The hearing aids may not be eligible for repairs, returns, or warranties.
Ask your hearing healthcare provider about what supports are available for your hearing aids, to make sure you are choosing the safest option for you.
Follow-up care
Regular follow-up appointments are important. During these visits, your hearing healthcare provider will:
- check for any changes in your hearing
- adjust your hearing aid settings, if needed
- make sure your hearing aids are comfortable and working correctly
Hearing aids also need routine cleaning and maintenance to keep them working their best. Maintenance includes:
- removing wax
- replacing filters or domes
- checking microphones or chargers
Getting used to your hearing aids
It takes time to get used to your new hearing aids. They should be comfortable in your ears. You want to have the right volume so you get the best benefit.
Follow-up appointments with your hearing healthcare professional will help you get more comfortable with your hearing aids. They can help adjust settings so you can have the best hearing possible for you.
Talk to your hearing healthcare provider about what using hearing aids has been like for you. Take notes of things you like and don’t like. This will help you to be a satisfied and successful hearing aid user.
Waiting to get hearing aids
It’s common for people who need hearing aids to wait before buying and using them. But waiting comes with risks. Research shows untreated hearing loss can lead to:
- trouble communicating with family and friends
- feeling alone or depressed
- more stress on your memory and thinking
- a higher chance of needing to go back to the hospital
To do well with hearing aids, you need to use them regularly. Starting earlier makes it easier to adapt and helps you do better with hearing aids in the long term.
Find an audiologist or hearing aid practitioner
To find an audiologist or hearing air practitioner near you, visit:
You can also:
Resources
