Costco Hearing Aid Fitting Missing a Big Step! Acclimatization.

Costco Hearing Aid Store Providers Miss One Important Step:  Acclimatization

When customers visit a Costco Hearing Aid Store, the provider typically fits them with hearing aids and verifies the fitting using best practices, such as real ear measurements on the fitting day. Real ear measurement (REM) ensures that the provider programs the hearing aids to match the user’s specific hearing loss and ear canal characteristics.” It involves placing a small microphone in the ear canal to measure the sound levels delivered by the hearing aids. REM is essential because it allows the provider to verify that the amplification is appropriate and matches the prescription for the user’s hearing needs. Therefore leading to better outcomes.

While this initial process is crucial, it’s important to understand the concept of acclimatization, which is a critical part of adjusting to hearing aids. Unfortunately, large-volume retailers often overlook or insufficiently address this step.

What Is Acclimatization?

Acclimatization is the process where your brain and ears adjust to amplified sound provided by hearing aids. Research has shown that even for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss, this adjustment period can take time. The brain needs to relearn how to interpret sounds it hasn’t heard clearly in a while.

Key aspects of acclimatization include:

• Soft Sound Gain: Wearers can now hear soft sounds that were previously inaudible or faint. Adjusting to these subtle sounds often takes the most time because the brain isn’t used to processing them.
• Own Voice: Many new hearing aid users find it strange to hear their own voice amplified and need time to adapt.
• General Loudness: Everyday sounds may initially seem too loud or unnatural until the brain acclimates.

Guidance on Acclimatization

Proper guidance is critical for a successful acclimatization process. At our clinic, we take the time to help patients understand why certain sounds may initially feel overwhelming or unusual and how we can adjust the hearing aids to improve their experience over time. Here’s what we do:

• Addressing “Tinny” or Unnatural Sound: New users often report that sounds, especially high-pitched ones, seem tinny or harsh. We explain that the brain is getting used to previously unheard sounds, which is a normal part of the adjustment process. We make slight adjustments to the hearing aids to ease this transition.
• Managing Soft Sounds Feeling Overwhelming: Soft sounds like rustling papers or distant conversations can feel startling at first. We help patients understand that this is a sign the hearing aids are amplifying appropriately and make gradual adjustments to find the right balance.
• Guidance on Own Voice Issues: Many users find their own voice amplified in a way that feels uncomfortable. We provide strategies such as gradually increasing amplification levels, adjusting frequency settings to reduce harshness, and counseling patients on what to expect during the adjustment period. This ensures a smoother transition as the brain adapts to new sounds.
• Follow-Up Adjustments: Over time, as patients acclimate, we revisit the settings to gradually bring them closer to their optimal prescription. This ensures the hearing aids are providing maximum benefit without overwhelming the user.

Challenges at Costco Hearing Aid Store

At Costco, hearing aid providers often reduce the sound amplification during the initial fitting to ensure the wearer is comfortable. This approach encourages continued use of the hearing aids but doesn’t fully address the acclimatization process. While this serves as an acceptable starting point, it becomes problematic if the provider does not make follow-up adjustments.

People know Costco Hearing Aid Stores for their high volume and busy schedules, which are often booked out for months. This is due to the popularity of their affordable pricing and limited staff availability, which creates high demand for their services. The popularity of Costco’s affordable hearing aids and the limited number of hearing aid providers contribute to these long wait times. This can result in:

• Lack of Follow-Up: Customers are not always advised to return for necessary readjustments as they acclimate.
• Suboptimal Fitting: Open domes are often used to make sounds feel more “normal,” but this can defeat the purpose of the hearing aid by limiting its effectiveness.
• Missed Opportunities for Counseling: Without follow-up appointments, users miss out on essential education about how their hearing aids should evolve with their needs.

The Consequences

Many customers leave Costco with hearing aids that don’t meet their long-term needs. The lack of follow-up means:

• The devices are not optimized to provide the best possible hearing.
• Threshold shifts and changes in hearing may go unnoticed.
• Counseling and education about acclimatization are missed, leaving users unaware of how their hearing aids can truly benefit them.

While Costco’s model excels at offering affordable devices and convenient cleanings, the limited follow-up care can lead to subpar outcomes for many users.

What Can You Do?

If you choose to purchase hearing aids from Costco, consider scheduling follow-up appointments with a local audiologist. Many providers offer standalone services for hearing aid adjustments and counseling. These appointments can help ensure:

• Your hearing aids are properly fitted as you acclimate.
• You receive guidance and support during the adjustment period.
• Your devices are optimized to help you hear your best.

Hearing aids are an investment in your quality of life. Their success depends on proper fitting, adjustments, and education over time. At our clinic, we welcome patients with hearing aids from any source, including Costco. We’re here to help you make the most of your devices and provide the personalized care you need to thrive during your acclimatization journey.