Introduction
If you’ve ever considered getting a hearing aid, or are looking for one for the first time, the array of choices available to you is probably overwhelming. From different brands to styles and prices there are so many options that it can be hard to know where to start. However, before we go into detail about what makes different types of hearing aids unique it’s important that we first understand why seniors need hearing aids in the first place.
An estimated 50 percent of people over the age of 65 have some form of hearing loss, whether it’s mild, moderate or severe. The type and degree of hearing loss necessary for a person to qualify as “disabled” are not defined by any government agency or law, but rather are based on what degree or level it becomes impractical.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is caused by damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that convert sound waves into nerve impulses. As these sensitive cells become damaged, they can no longer send sound signals to the brain correctly.
Factors That Influence Hearing Aid Choices
One of the most important factors in choosing a hearing aid is your lifestyle. For example, if you are a musician or a professional in the arts, the ability to hear high frequencies may be crucial. In that case, one of the top hearing aid brands with the highest fidelity may be ideal for you. If you want to remain active but also want to be able to participate in social gatherings and not have your hearing aid interfere with your conversation, maybe a mid-level brand would suit you best.
How To Choose A Hearing Aid For Seniors
1. Know Your Needs And Choices
Figuring out what type of hearing aids to get, the capabilities they have and their price ranges is often the most challenging part of your decision. While they may seem more expensive than a cochlear implant, a high-end model may be more effective. With so many options available, it can be difficult to figure out which ones are right for you or your loved ones. What’s important is that you know what’s available to you, what you can afford and how it’ll suit your lifestyle.
2. Find A Qualified Audiologist
For those looking for a solution to the problem of hearing loss, the first step is often to see an audiologist. For some people, this is the first time they’re being told they have a problem with their hearing. An audiologist will test your hearing abilities and may be able to recommend solutions. The key to finding an audiologist that’s right for you is asking friends and family members for recommendations based on their experience.
3. Do Your Research
After you’ve found an audiologist, do your homework and learn everything you can about your options. It’s important to know how much a hearing aid will cost, how long the batteries will last, what kind of accessories you’ll need and whether they fit in your ear properly.
4. Consider Rechargeable Models
With all the benefits rechargeable models have over traditional ones, it’s wise to do some research on your options. If you want to cut down on costs, a rechargeable model may be right for you. In addition to being helpful for the environment, they can be beneficial for your wallet as well. Not only are they more cost effective than their traditional counterparts, but their continued use could also mean less visits to an audiologist in the future!
5. Get The Right Size
Choosing the right size hearing aid is vitally important. If they don’t fit correctly, it can lead to ear infections, discomfort and generally poor hearing. In fact, almost half of people with a hearing loss don’t wear their hearing aids because they find them uncomfortable. That’s why it’s important to take time to get the right size for your specific needs.
6. Differentiate Between “In-The-Ear” and Behind The Ear Models
If you haven’t seen behind the ear models before, they may look unfamiliar at first glance. They’re different from the ones that sit in your ear. These are known as “in-the-ear” models, or IITs. They sit in the outer portion of your ear canal and are connected to a wire that runs behind the earlobe and bridges to the hearing aid itself. If you want to get a hearing aid that’s less conspicuous, it might be a good idea to choose an in-the-ear model.
7. Arrive Early To Get A Hearing Aid Trial
Once you find the right model for your needs and are ready to commit, checking out at an audiologist early is important. A hearing aid trial consists of four steps: (1) fitting the hearing aid, (2) adjusting it and (3) fine tuning it to make sure that it’s working. If you need time to adjust so that the device will work well for your lifestyle, getting an early trial may be essential for making sure that you get the right fit and that the proper option is chosen.
8. Remember That Hearing Aid Accessories Are Important Too
When looking for a hearing aid, remember that accessories are important as well as simply purchasing a model. You should also consider what products will help you get the most out of your hearing aid. Whether it’s extra batteries or custom ear molds, the possibility of an infection or hearing aid falling out is lessened with these simple additions.
9. Choosing The Right Brand Matters
Finally, if you want to get a good pair of hearing aids, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that brand matters. While there are several top brands for seniors’ hearing aids and other products such as headphones and earphones, learning about your options is a crucial step that often makes all the difference in getting the best results from your purchase.
Conclusion
There are many reasons people opt for hearing aids, including damage that’s been done to the ears. It’s important to be realistic about what a hearing aid can do for you and what it cannot. While they’re not going to give you perfect hearing again, they can provide significant help in hearing everyday conversations and being able to hear in certain situations. The key is choosing the right model for your needs and lifestyle choices. Taking time to choose the right pair will make all the difference in your overall hearing experience going forward.
As technology improves, more expensive brands are often chosen due to their ability to filter out background noise and operate at higher frequencies than lower-end models.