Hearing Aids: How to Choose the Right One for You

If you are someone who experiences hearing loss, getting hearing aids from an audiologist is likely to be the best solution. However, when looking at different devices, it’s important to acknowledge the importance of researching the market to find the right choice for you. Selecting a device that aligns with your needs will significantly improve your quality of life on a daily basis. Here are some tips to point you in the right direction.

Know the Three Main Styles of Hearing Aids

When researching hearing aids, the first thing you must do is familiarize yourself with the three main styles. They each have pros and cons, meaning you may be better suited to a different choice than a friend or relative. The three primary styles of hearing aids include:

• Behind the ear (BTE): The body of the hearing aid sits behind the ear and is connected to an earmold that sits in the ear through a tube. They are available in various sizes and designs. These are suitable for mild-to-profound hearing loss.
• In the ear (ITE): In-the-ear hearing aids sit inside the outer bowl of your ear. They are customized to the individual’s ear, but the devices are most suitable for people with mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss.
• In the canal (ITC): ITC hearing aids sit in your ear canal and provide a discreet look. These hearing aids are suitable for mild-to-profound hearing loss.

Your decision may be influenced by comfort preferences, budgets and the severity of hearing loss. Your audiologist will keep you informed of these styles of hearing aids and base the hearing aid you need on the type and severity of your hearing loss.

Consider the Severity of Your Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can occur in either ear or both ears. The severity of hearing loss may impact which style of hearing aid is right for you. Similarly, it may influence your subsequent decisions regarding individual models. Everyone has a unique hearing profile, you can experience mild, moderate, severe or profound. The only way to gain an accurate measure of your hearing loss is to have a full examination with your audiologist.

Think About the Design Needs

Hearing aids are no longer limited to bulky units. There are now a variety of models on the market. Whether you want a discreet device or want something that is clear for all to see is a personal matter. Either way, you can now find an extensive range of options suited to your tastes. If you struggle with dexterity issues, talk with your audiologist about behind-the-ear hearing aid, as these are slightly bigger and easier to switch settings and clean. So, it’s imperative that you find one that has a design to fill you with comfort and confidence.

Consider Advanced Features

Hearing aids have undergone significant evolution, not only in their design but also in their technological capabilities. This transformation provides individuals with the opportunity to select devices that cater to their lifestyle and the specific degree of their hearing loss. So, it becomes a priority to find the features that will best serve your hearing needs. Among the array of advanced hearing aid technologies, some of the most popular include:

• • Bluetooth connections to TVs, cell phones and other devices.

Feedback reduction.

• White noise or melody-playing capabilities.
• Long life and rechargeable batteries.

The right features will ensure that the hearing aids are ready to improve your quality of life with truly stunning results.

Speak to an Audiologist

With the help of an audiologist, you can confidently navigate the process of choosing hearing aids that are tailored to your specific needs. Recognize that this decision carries great significance as it directly influences your daily quality of life. It’s always best to gain advice from an audiologist, who will help you in choosing the best device for you. An audiologist can help you in many ways, such as:

• Confirming that the hearing aid is suitable for your hearing profile.
• Discussing the advanced features that may be beneficial to you.
• Completing a fitting appointment and showing you to use the device.
• Testing that your new hearing aids work as expected.
• Providing valuable care and maintenance tips for your hearing aids.

By working together with an experienced audiologist, the process of finding the best hearing aids for your needs will be easy.

To learn more about Advanced Hearing Center LLC and how we can help you find the best hearing aids. Call us today at (724) 547-3445, (724) 836-1715, (724) 238-4888 and (814) 269-2368.