If you have taken the plunge into the world of hearing loss treatment, congratulations! The most important step you can take is to begin pursuing assistance, and you have already achieved that task. Those who are resistant to hearing loss treatment can suffer other related health and wellness issues, so you are making a choice not only in support of your hearing health, but your general wellbeing.
Once you have made the decision to pursue treatment for hearing loss, you will likely be given a hearing test. This test is designed to diagnose the range of hearing that is missing and to what degree. Each person’s hearing ability is unique, and this test will point your hearing health professional in the direction of the right type of aids for your needs. The good news is that you can trust us to guide you through the process with expert knowledge and wisdom.
Although the crucial details will be handled by our team of professionals, you can benefit from some general knowledge of the types of aids that are suited to different lifestyles and hearing needs. Let’s take a look at a few of these considerations so that you are comfortable making a decision when the time comes.
Shapes and Sizes
The latest hearing aids come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and a combination of your needs and preferences can point you toward the right set of devices. Selecting hearing aids tends to be a balance between a low-profile look and aids that are easy to manipulate. If you have any problems with manual dexterity, such as arthritis, you might find larger hearing aids to be easier to insert and remove. If your aids have replaceable batteries, then larger aids with an easily accessible compartment might be easier, as well. Smaller aids can blend right into your natural look, and some can be inserted so far into the ear canal that they are completely invisible. Although you might like the look of hearing aids that fit into your ear canal, other lifestyle needs can make the decision more complex.
Power and Position
Some hearing aids are designed in two components that are connected by a thin plastic tube. These devices have the benefit of a microphone that can sense direction and even isolate the voice of a speaker standing in front of you. The possible problem with these aids is that hair can brush against the microphone, causing a frustrating sound like wrapping paper being crinkled. Another consideration when it comes to hearing aids is the type of battery they contain. Many people like rechargeable batteries, making it possible not to tinker with the components when you would need to replace a battery. However, these aids need to be charged rather often, and some even need a charge every night. If you find yourself traveling, camping, or otherwise using your aids for extended periods, then replaceable batteries might be a better choice for you.
Making the Right Choice
Beyond these basic considerations of shape, size, power, and position, your lifestyle can drive some other decisions when it comes to your aids. One of the other balancing acts you face when you choose hearing aids is to decide which features and functions are beneficial to you. The latest hearing aids come with a wide range of options, and you might be surprised how much you appreciate some features that you didn’t think you would. For instance, the ability to stream content directly to your hearing aids isn’t just for music lovers.
When you are able to sync your hearing aids with other devices, it makes it possible to have your phone ringer go directly to your aids or to change the sonic environment of your aids according to locations you frequent. You can even adjust the volume from your smartphone. When you consult with your hearing health professional, be ready for a frank conversation about your lifestyle and the situations that make hearing difficult for you. When you assess these needs, you will be able to find the right combination of size, shape, power, position, and other features to suit your needs far into the future.