Hearing Aids

Hearing loss occurs slowly and is painless so the hearing loss may not be obvious to the person in question. Hearing aids often retain a stigma that a person is “old” if they are used. This is certainly not true but people will often resist using a hearing aid because of this perception. Compound these factors with the number of complaints offered by disgruntled hearing aid users (or ex-users), and we can readily understand why only 10% of the hard-of-hearing population are fit with hearing aids.

There is an old saying that “a hearing aid is less conspicuous than your hearing loss” , which is quite true. Encourage someone with a hearing loss to have his/her hearing tested without any discussion of hearing aids. Perhaps they will become more interested in their type and degree of hearing loss if they are assured that no one will be delivering a “sales pitch.” Hearing aid trials are generally possible at a minimal cost. If the person continues to resist testing, the family may have few options other than allow him/her to experience the consequences and frustrations of hearing loss.

How do I know if it’s time for a hearing aid or if I will benefit from one?

There are many self-assessment items to determine your level of hearing effectiveness. Having your hearing tested by an audiologist is a great starting point. If hearing aids are recommended, make sure there is a trial period offered which allows you to return the hearing aids at a low cost if the performance of the hearing aids is less than satisfactory.

How do I know if I’m choosing the right hearing aid for me, and if I am paying a fair price?

Discuss styles and circuitry options with your audiologist. Have the audiologist explain the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Together agree on a course of action. Comparison shopping can be a good idea. However, make certain that you are comparing the same styles and types of circuitry. This can be very misleading.

Does it matter where I go for a hearing aid?

See someone that is highly trained so that they can offer you sufficient skill to meet your hearing needs. Also, see someone that you are comfortable with. Are they out to help you and meet your hearing needs or are they always out to “sell you something?” Hearing aids are extremely labor intensive. Hearing aids will not restore normal hearing functions and are subject to breakage. Will you audiologist or hearing aid dispenser present sufficient skill and be available when necessary to satisfy your needs? These are primary factors for patient satisfaction, and it may mean that you pay a little more for your hearing aid as these services are costly.

I can save money getting a hearing aid through the internet. Is this a good idea?

Product without service is worth little or nothing. If you want to be fit well with a hearing aid, go to a place where you are comfortable and expect to pay a fair price. The audiologist will most likely be there for you long after you get the hearing aid.