There are many factors that go into choosing a hearing aid. While according to a 2022 article published in the National Library of Medicine, “The degree of subjective and objective loss and patient choice are taken into account when deciding on a hearing aid,” there are other factors that go into this decision, too. In this post, we review some of the questions you can ask your audiologist to help them select a hearing aid for you.
Will I Need One Hearing Aid or Two?
If your hearing loss is unilateral (single-sided), then only one hearing aid will be necessary. However, most people with hearing loss have it in both ears, even if one ear is “better” than the other. Wearing two hearing aids will help you localize sounds and make it so your brain can process sounds more naturally.
What Will My Hearing Aids Look Like?
Some people highly value the aesthetic of their hearing aids. While many people want their hearing aids to be small, discreet and blend in, others prefer that they stand out while they’re at the Westfield Community Center’s Senior Café. Note that smaller hearing aids offer less in terms of power and may not be suitable for more severe forms of hearing loss. That said, you will be able to choose a color that blends into your skin or hair if that’s what you prefer.
Can I Get Rechargeable Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids that take disposable button batteries are the most common option, but rechargeable hearing aids are becoming increasingly popular. Instead of having to swap out batteries every couple of days, with these devices, you can simply dock them on their charger at the end of the day to hear well all the next day.
What Features Are Offered?
For those who are new to hearing aids, many are unaware of the amazing features modern devices have to offer. Popular features available in today’s devices include Bluetooth® connectivity, background noise reduction, directional microphones, remote controls, geotagging, machine learning and more!
To learn more about the amazing features hearing aid have to offer or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call Speech & Hearing Associates today.