How to Check a Hearing Aid

This information is part of an online guide, Resources for Mainstream Programs

For students who use hearing aids, it is necessary to check the aids on a regular basis to ensure proper functioning. This is essential because a hearing aid will only provide benefit if it has a good battery and is working appropriately. A malfunctioning aid can be distracting and is of no benefit to a student. With minimal effort and a few minutes a day, teachers can work with their students to check their hearing aids. An audiologist or teacher of deaf students can train individuals within the school to check hearing aids. Students of all ages can take varying degrees of responsibility in this process. Even young children can look at their earmolds to see if they are clean and can check to make sure the hearing aid is set to the correct volume.

As students get older, they should assume more responsibility, eventually checking their aids independently. A chart is a good way to remind students of the steps involved in checking their hearing aids. Any problems should be written on the chart and reported to the teacher, the audiologist, and the parents. Family members should also check the hearing aid every day at home and should contact the audiologist if they need training in this area.