When it comes to choosing the right hearing aids, you might feel like you’re swimming upstream with the vast selection available on the market today. There are so many different types of hearing aids near Colorado Springs, each with its own unique features, benefits, and drawbacks.
Peering into the murky waters of hearing aid selection can be intimidating, but once you know what to look for and understand the different types of hearing aids, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. The right choice will help you hear better and remain active. Keep reading to discover the essential information you need to choose the right hearing aids.
Know the different types of hearing aids
Hearing aids come in a few different formats:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) – This type of hearing aid is typically worn behind the ear, resting against the side of the head.
- In the canal (ITC) – This type of hearing aid typically sits in the ear canal and is often used for mild to moderate hearing loss.
- In the Ear (ITE) – This type of hearing aid is inserted directly into the ear canal and is often used for severe to profound hearing loss.
- Behind the Neck (BNT) – This type of hearing aid is worn behind the neck, and is often used for severe to profound hearing loss.
Understand your hearing loss
The first step in choosing the right hearing aids is to understand your hearing loss. Hearing loss is typically measured on a logarithmic scale ranging from mild to profound. Hearing aids are designed to amplify sound to a certain level, so you’ll want to choose a set that best compensates for your hearing loss.
If you don’t understand your hearing loss, you may be able to get a hearing evaluation to determine your hearing threshold. You’ll need to provide your name, address, phone number, and date of birth to receive the test or evaluation. You’ll then be given a series of tones, which you’ll have to identify by sound. The result will show you how well your hearing aids amplify sound, so you can get an idea of their quality.
Determine which features are most important to you
Once you know your hearing loss, you can start exploring the different hearing aid features to find the ones that are most important to you.
- Hearing aid volume – Hearing aid volume is the overall loudness of the aid, and can be adjusted manually or with a remote. The higher the volume, the softer the sound.
- Hearing aid sound quality – Sound quality is the sound quality of the aid, which is expressed as clarity, bass, and quality.
- Hearing aid battery life – Hearing aid battery life can range anywhere from 12 hours to weeks.
- Remote control – A remote is an accessory that allows you to control the volume and sound of your aid without looking at it.
Match hearing aid to hearing loss
After exploring the different options, it’s time to match your hearing aid to your hearing loss. When choosing a pair of hearing aids, you’ll want to start with a baseline test. This will let you know just how much your hearing aids amplify sound in comparison with the unaided ear.
The next step is to match the volume of your hearing aids to the baseline test.
And then, lastly, you can match the type of hearing aid to the hearing loss.
Stay alert when you shop for a hearing aid
In addition to knowing your hearing loss, and matching it to the type of hearing aid you want, you’ll also need to be aware of the different types of hearing aids.
There are several important things to keep in mind when shopping for hearing aids. First off, you’ll want to make sure the audiologist that you’re working with is certified in the type of hearing aid they’re recommending.
After that, you’ll want to look out for certain features that may be more important to you than others.
You may also want to inquire about a financing option, as well as any language that is different from the one you speak. If you can’t understand it, it can be a barrier to using your new hearing aids effectively.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hearing aids can be a daunting experience. There are so many options and features, and it can be difficult to know where to start. The key to success is to understand your hearing loss and match that to the type of hearing aid you want.
Quality Hearing Aid – The most important aspect of choosing the right hearing aids is finding a quality set. This will ensure the best possible sound quality and battery life.
Your budget – Of course, you’ll also want to keep your budget in mind when shopping for a hearing aid.
Compatibility – You’ll also want to make sure your hearing aids are compatible with your phone, tablet, or other devices.
Assistance from an Advocate – If you have any questions about your hearing aids, make sure to speak with an advocate before you use them. This ensures that you have everything under control and are ready for a smooth transition.
