Ask the hearing expert CHRIS CHILDE

Audiologist and Training Manager from Amplifon, the Global Hearing Specialist, has the answers to your questions Q How does a free hearing aid trial work?

A You will have a full diagnostic hearing test which is free of charge and then you will discuss the results with the audiologist. If you have a hearing loss, the audiologist will recommend hearing aids to suit your hearing loss and lifestyle. You will be booked for an appointment to have the hearing aids fitted, and will be able to take them away for a 7 day free trial. You will then have a follow up appointment, where you can decide whether you would like to keep the hearing aids or return them at no extra charge. QWho is eligible? A Anyone with a hearing loss and who wants to try hearing aids is eligible for the free trial. QWhat are the benefits? A The main benefit is that you can try the hearing aids out in your normal day-to-day life. Usually with a fitting appointment, you are fitted with the hearing aids in a very quiet clinic room and then pay for them without even stepping outside and hearing ‘real world’ sound. Some people still prefer to do this, however with the free trial you are able to try the hearing aids out in a range of situations for 7 days before committing to pay for them. QHow do I make the most out of the trial? A Try as many different listening situations as you can. For example, if you have trouble with television, in noisy restaurants or cafes, and in the theatre, try those situations to see how much improvement there is with the hearing aids, and whether you have any feedback for the audiologist on what adjustments might need to be made. If you try a good range of listening situations in the 7 day period, you will have a good idea of whether you would like to pay for and keep the hearing aids, and you will also have a 60 day money back guarantee for peace of mind.