Hearing Aids
How do I know if it’s time for a hearing aid or if I will benefit from one?
You have to ask yourself two questions. Do I have trouble understanding what people are saying, especially in crowded, noisy environments? Does it frustrate me? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then you need to have your hearing checked and you might benefit from a hearing aid. 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?
Does it matter where you get your glasses or who you see for other health-related issues? Certainly. See someone that is highly trained so that he/she 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 your 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?
Mom always said that “you get what your pay for.” 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 forgot the price you paid for the hearing aid. I think it is beneficial to have the physician ear specialist on site with the audiologist.
My friends don’t use their hearing aids and complain of feedback. Have hearing aids changed?
Yes. Hearing aids are always improving and typically a person that is unhappy with their hearing aid did not have sufficient help in the selection process and did not choose the correct hearing aid for their hearing loss. Our audiologists are great at helping patients choose the correct hearing aid and then helping with the minor adjustments that help that hearing aid work optimally for that patient.