If you have a hearing loss in one or both ears, and your audiologist has ruled out other causes and suggested using hearing aids, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the choice and variety available. There are many different models and styles, and it’s difficult to know which will suit you best.
Here at Hidden Hearing, we have a great range of digital hearing aids for you to try, and you may wish to consider certain styles based on the type of hearing loss you have and your feelings about wearing hearing aids. It is a good idea to bring a friend or loved one along to your appointment, since it will be useful to listen to a familiar voice in order to see how each type of hearing aid works for you.
How To Choose A Hearing Aid
Choosing a hearing aid may be a complex process, but your audiologist will guide you and offer advice on the right solution for your lifestyle. Some factors to consider include:
- Your hearing loss. Depending on the extent of your hearing loss, you may prefer a different style of hearing aid. A severe hearing loss will require a hearing aid with a great deal of amplification, while someone with a mild hearing loss may benefit from a style that allows for peripheral hearing rather than an in-ear device.
- Hearing aids vary enormously in price, and you should consider your needs carefully when making your decision. If you exercise a lot, for example, you may choose a style that is discreet and stays in place well, and if you just need a very basic amplification device, you can save yourself a great deal of money by choosing from the lower cost ranges.
- Many people worry about the social stigma of wearing a hearing aid, and it is not uncommon to delay for many years before seeking help for this reason. However, many hearing aids today are so small that they cannot be seen by others, and if you are concerned about this, you should ask your audiologist about invisible hearing aids and other highly discreet options.
- Technology. Some hearing aids are designed to use more impressive technology than a smartphone, and can link up with other devices, such as your phone or your TV, to offer you a unique and personal listening experience. If you are a technology-buff, these options may be well worth exploring.
- Very small hearing aids can be fiddly to adjust and to clean, and those that sit in the ear can need more cleaning than behind the ear hearing aids. If you have problems with your dexterity, or do not think you will manage such regular cleaning, these may not be the best option for you.
Try Digital Hearing Aids at Hidden Hearing
The most important phase of choosing a hearing aid is to talk to your audiologist about your lifestyle and the way your hearing loss affects you. At Hidden Hearing, we have a great range of hearing aids available to try. Simply call us or pop in to book a free hearing test and let us help you to find the best hearing solution for you.