Questions to Ask Your Hearing Provider About Hearing Aids

It is only natural to have questions when it comes to getting new hearing aids. It can be a nerve-racking experience, and you want to make the right decision. Getting a hearing aid is a big decision, and before you commit to a certain style, you want to make sure you understand your options thoroughly before making any decisions.

Here are some points to cover with your hearing healthcare professional before deciding on the right type of hearing aid for you.

How Comfortable Will the Fit Be?

You want and need to make certain that your hearing aids are comfortable. If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure they are compatible with your glasses. If you wear hearing protection at work, you'll want to know how this will work when wearing your hearing aid. Your hearing healthcare professional should have sample hearing aids in the office for you to try on to see if they are comfortable to wear.

You should ask to make sure you are aware of how visible the hearing aid will be. Different styles sit in different positions in and around the ear, and if you are after a more discreet look, it could be worth asking for in the canal (ITC) or in the ear (ITE) where they will be less obvious to others.

How Much Do the Different Hearing Aid Styles Cost?

Your new hearing aid cost can play a big factor in which one you choose; however, it shouldn't be the deciding influence. Instead, discuss with your hearing healthcare professional how much the different styles are, and the type of technology provided at each price point. This can give you a better idea of what to expect for your money and give you more options about different styles and features.

What is the Sound Quality Like?

Inquire about the sound that the hearing aid will produce. You will hear the world around you, which may be different from what you are used to. Discuss the sound you can expect to experience with your hearing healthcare professional and how the hearing aids work to deliver the sound to your ears. Adjustments to hearing aids can be made over time, so don't worry; you won't be stuck with the initial sound of the hearing aid if it doesn't work for you.

How Do I Care for My New Hearing Aids?

How well you care for your new hearing aid will play a big part in how long it will last. For example, knowing when to take it off, how to clean it, how often to change the battery and how to insert and remove the hearing aid correctly can prolong the life and quality of the hearing aid.

Your hearing aid can come into contact with many different elements, and, naturally, they might become dirty due to excessive touching, earwax build-up and moisture. However, taking proper care of your hearing aid can ensure it remains in good condition to allow you to experience the best level of hearing quality possible.

Talk to your hearing specialist before making any decisions and get a better picture of what is available for you when choosing the best hearing aid style for your needs.