If you have been newly diagnosed with hearing loss and prescribed hearing aids, you are probably feeling many things. For one, there are so many options out there that it can be incredibly overwhelming to sift through. The good news is that we are here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect fit for you. It’s important to know what you are looking for and by asking yourself a few questions this can become much clearer.
What hearing aid style is best for me?
There are many different styles of hearing aids. The larger ones fit behind the ear and generally have more power. There are also more discrete models which fit inside the ear canal and can barely be noticed. The downside to these however is that they may not have as much power, for more serious hearing issues. Smaller hearing aids may also become a challenge for seniors and people with dexterity issues, as tiny hearing aids can be difficult to handle and operate. You can also turn hearing aids into a fashion statement, as they come in many different colors and styles. Understanding your type of hearing loss will play a big part in this decision, but part of this journey is simply deciding which style will be the best for you, your fashion and your lifestyle.
Do I find it hard to hear soft sounds?
Most people have no issue hearing loud sounds. Hearing aids in effect are programmed to amplify the specific tones and pitches which you have lost over time. If you are missing the subtle sounds, such as the wind blowing the leaves in the trees or the chirping of birds then you may want to invest in a set of hearing aids that have a capacity for ambient sounds.
Where do I most often need to hear best?
It is important to access your lifestyle. The features in new hearing aids are amazing but if you are currently not living a life where you access some features, they may not be worth the investment. However, if you enjoy sports and exercise, water-resistant and wind suppression features will help you to make the things you love more successful and easier.
What is my work environment like?
If you work from home, you will not have to hear in a noisy setting, at least for the time you are at work. However, if you work in a factory or construction, it is likely that you are surrounded by loud noise for at least eight hours a day, five days a week. This may even have contributed to you having hearing loss in the first place. If your workplace is a noisy place, you may want a hearing aid that minimizes background noise, so you can hear the people in your workplace.
Do I want to stream music or TV directly to my hearing aid?
Today’s hearing aids can do more than just amplify sound. They are also incredibly connective and can interface with the other electronics you use in your life. There are several benefits to these futuristic advancements. Your hearing aids can wirelessly connect to your Smartphone, television, car stereo and more, via Bluetooth technology. You will no longer struggle to hear navigation as you drive or quarrel with family members over the volume of the TV as you can hear these things crystal clear, directly to your ears.
Do I want to use my smartphone to manage my hearing aid?
Today’s hearing aids continue to surprise us with more features that feel like they are out of a sci-fi novel. Artificial technology allows us to track our location and automatically adjust listening settings based on our environment. Hearing aids can now also be adjusted via smartphone or even remotely by a hearing healthcare professional.
What is my budget?
Hearing aids are an important investment in your health and quality of life. It’s important to make sure your hearing aids work for you, but still, it is important to be aware of your budget. With so many options available, it can even be a helpful way to narrow down your options. We are here to make sure you get the most out of your investment and have the best hearing experience possible.