Ask a Professional: Can My Hearing Aids Be Adjusted as My Hearing Changes?

As your hearing evolves, your hearing aids can change with you. Explore how they can be fine-tuned, reprogrammed, or even upgraded to help you enjoy clear and confident listening every day.

Published 25/11/2025,

Updated 04/12/2025

2 min read

Reviewed by HearCanada editorial team

Hearing aids

Q: Can my existing hearing aids be reprogrammed to fit my new hearing levels?

A: Hearing aids are selected based on a person’s specific hearing needs and unique lifestyle. Hearing care professionals often recommend hearing aids that can be adjusted over time, especially if hearing changes.

While hearing loss doesn’t usually improve, hearing aids can be adjusted so the same set can last for several years.

For progressive hearing health changes – when hearing is expected to worsen due to medical conditions – behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids or receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids are often suggested, as they adapt to a wider range of needs. If you notice significant changes and your current hearing aids no longer provide the support you need, exploring different solutions with your hearing care professional can help you stay connected.

Helpful information

In some cases, if your hearing changes, a different kind of hearing aid may be recommended to better suit your needs. If you have very significant hearing loss, a trial with hearing aids can help determine whether they offer enough benefit.

In certain cases, a cochlear implant may also be considered to provide more suitable amplification. This device works differently from a hearing aid; in cochlear implants, sound is sent to the brain directly through stimulation of the auditory/hearing nerve.

Q: How often should you have a hearing test if you have hearing aids?

A: The best way to keep your hearing and your hearing aids performing at their best is to have a hearing test at least once a year. Getting regular checkups helps make sure your hearing aids are always set to support your lifestyle and needs as they evolve.

If your hearing aids aren't performing as well as expected or you've noticed changes in your hearing, reach out to your hearing care professional as soon as possible. In many cases, a quick setting adjustment, fresh batteries, or a new wax filter is all it takes.

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Q: How often do you need to get your hearing aids adjusted?

A: Following your initial hearing aid fitting, plan a follow-up visit to fine-tune your hearing aids and help you adapt to your new way of hearing. After that, connect with your hearing care professional whenever you’d like to make adjustments or explore new features. Your comfort and satisfaction are always our priority.

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Q: How will I know if my hearing has changed enough to need an adjustment?

A: Over time, you might notice signs that your hearing isn’t as clear as it was when you first started using hearing aids. You may find yourself regularly turning up the volume or switching programs more often to hear comfortably in different settings. Sometimes, sounds may seem fainter, or others around you might notice changes before you do.

If you’ve experienced anything that could impact your hearing, such as head or neck trauma, surgery, excessive noise exposure, certain health conditions (like meningitis or stroke), or long-term medication use, it’s important to mention it to your hearing care professional.

Remember, hearing aids are designed to enrich your daily life and keep you connected, while supporting your brain’s engagement with sound. Your hearing can change, but your hearing aids and your hearing care team are here to help every step of the way.

If you’re interested in even clearer sound or want features that better fit your lifestyle, ask about new models. Today’s technology offers advanced sound processing and adaptability so you can hear your best.

If your hearing aids work well in general, but you need a boost in specific settings like when watching TV, assistive listening devices can help. They stream sound directly to your hearing aids, reducing the effects of distance and background noise and offering better clarity.

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Speak with a hearing care professional

If you’re unsure if your hearing health has changed or want to explore how the latest hearing technology can help you hear your best, we’re here to support you. Find your nearest hearing care centre and schedule your appointment today; your hearing journey matters to us!

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