Hearing aids are incredible pieces of technology that provide tremendous support for millions of people with hearing loss. Similar to most electronic devices we use today, hearing aids have experienced significant innovation. Today’s devices are savvier and sleeker than ever before, offering award winning designs and technologies that optimally support hearing health. Navigating your various options can seem daunting at first but it is important to know that your hearing healthcare provider will guide you through this process.
There are also a few tips you can practice to support making an informed decision when choosing a hearing aid. This includes the following:
- Get your hearing evaluated.
The first part of this process is learning more about what your hearing needs are. This
starts by having your hearing evaluated by a hearing healthcare specialist. Hearing tests involve a painless process that measures your hearing capacities in both ears. This will identify any hearing loss and the degree of impairment you are experiencing. This process will also surface the types of sounds and speech tha trae more challenging for you to hear. Be sure to ask questions about your hearing test results so that you fully understand what your hearing needs are. This will help determine the type of hearing aids that will work best for you.
Here at Hearing Technology Associates, our expert and caring audiologists Dr. Tiffany Connatser and Dr. Nicole Steininger perform in-depth hearing tests and can guide you to better hearing at your pace, and within your budget.
- Learn more about types of hearing aids.
There are various types, or styles, of hearing aids. They can be categorized as BTE
(behind the ear) and ITE (in the ear) and within these categorizes, there are more types
that range in size. Generally, BTE types of hearing aids are better for more profound degrees of hearing loss whereas ITE types are for mild impairments. Be sure to ask your hearing healthcare provider about the different styles of hearing aids and which are better suited for your specific hearing loss.
- Establish a budget.
Like with any major purchase or investment you are going to make, it is helpful to identify
your budget. Hearing aids can range when it comes to price which is informed by a few factors like the model of the device as well as the technologies it offers. There are many hearing aid devices at different price points so establishing your budget is a great way to filter through your options. This will also help your hearing healthcare provider recommend devices that are within your budget.
- Share lifestyle factors.
There are lifestyle factors that are important considerations when choosing a hearing aid. Your hearing healthcare provider will likely ask you about what you look like on a daily basis. This includes your social life, work environment, any activities you regularly participate in etc. These factors help identify the types of settings you frequently navigate which reveal ways in which your hearing aid needs to be able to support your hearing as you move through these spaces and activities.
- Consider technologies and features.
Hearing aids are regularly updated, benefitting from evolving and advancing technology. There are a range of features that maximize cutting edge technologies to deliver easy and personalized listening experiences. A few examples include:
- Wireless connectivity: using Bluetooth technology, hearing aids can wirelessly connect to other audio sources and stream audio directly from them. This allows the hearing aids to then adjust the sound in specific ways to meet the wearer’s hearing needs. This feature can personalize activities like watching TV, listening to music, talking on the phone etc.
- Digital noise reduction: this feature is designed to reduce background noise, delivering sharper sound quality and making it easier to hear in environments that are noisier and more active. This is especially useful in social contexts and environments.
- Tinnitus management: tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears and is a common symptom of hearing loss. This feature emits low levels of white noise to de-emphasize tinnitus, providing sustainable relief.
- Voice recognition: this feature identifies and recognizes the wearer’s voice, delivering it as naturally as possible.
In addition to these technologies, there is an array of hearing aid accessories and
resources that support user experience and hearing health. Be sure to discuss these technologies with your hearing healthcare provider.
These tips can help you navigate your hearing aid options with greater ease and knowledge, allowing you to make an informed decision. Contact us today at (610) 747-1100 or click here to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation and learn more about hearing aids.