At West Coast Hearing and Balance, we understand that your journey toward better hearing is not just a medical process, but also an emotional and relational one.

This is why we highly recommend bringing a companion—be it a spouse, family member, or close friend—to your hearing assessment. Let’s delve into why their presence is invaluable.

The Strength of Emotional Support

The path to improved hearing is often laden with emotional hurdles. Having a trusted companion by your side during your hearing appointments can offer the emotional fortitude and encouragement needed, particularly when making decisions about hearing aids. They become a source of comfort, helping you navigate both the technical and emotional aspects of hearing loss.

Gaining a Broader Perspective

A companion provides an external viewpoint on your hearing challenges. They can offer insights into situations where your hearing loss might be more noticeable to others than to you. This broader perspective is crucial when assessing the effectiveness of hearing aids, as your companion can provide feedback on how well you’re interacting in various environments.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Understanding the capabilities and limitations of hearing technology is essential. A companion can help in managing expectations and understanding the realistic outcomes of using hearing aids. Their involvement is key in setting achievable goals and acknowledging the progress you make.

Involvement in the Journey

Hearing loss affects not just the individual but also their relationships. Involving your companion in the hearing assessment process promotes a deeper mutual understanding. This shared experience can enhance communication, reduce misunderstandings, and strengthen your relationship.

Fostering Commitment

A companion who is involved from the beginning tends to be more invested in your journey to better hearing. They can encourage you to use your hearing aids consistently and remind you of the strategies suggested by your hearing care provider, ensuring you make the most of your investment.

Moral and Emotional Support

The presence of a companion offers moral support, making it easier to adapt to hearing loss and new hearing aids. They provide a level of emotional comfort that complements the technical aspects of hearing care.

Maximizing the Benefit of a Companion at Your Appointment

To ensure your companion’s presence is as beneficial as possible, consider these tips:

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Shared Preparation:

Discuss any concerns or questions beforehand.

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Active Involvement:

Encourage your companion to actively engage in discussions with the hearing care provider.

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Note-Taking:

One of you can listen while the other takes notes for later review.

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Post-Appointment Discussion:

Review the information together to ensure a shared understanding.

Bringing a companion to your hearing assessments at West Coast Hearing and Balance is more than a source of comfort—it’s a strategic step toward successful hearing care.

Their involvement can profoundly impact the effectiveness of your hearing solutions and enhance your overall experience.

Book an appointment today at West Coast Hearing and Balance and bring along a trusted companion to join you on this important journey toward better hearing.

Book Your Shared Appointment

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Gregory PhD, AuD, CCC-A, ABA, NBC-HIS

Dr. Gregory Frazer entered private practice Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensing in 1982. For 14 years he owned and operated Hearing Care Associates, which had 23 offices and was one of the largest audiology private practices in the U.S. Dr. Frazer is a well-known clinician and teacher, and was the first audiologist to obtain dual doctorates in Audiology, both a PhD. in Audiology as well as the new Clinical Doctorate of Audiology, the AuD.