It can be difficult to choose a hearing aid, especially if it is your first time. There are many options available, including different colors and levels of technology.
Your unique hearing loss is the first thing that will determine which type of hearing aid you get. This could range from mild to severe. What’s next? What are you looking for in a personal hearing aid?
How should my hearing aid look?
The World Health Organization estimates that 466 million people suffer from hearing loss. Some prefer to display their new hearing aids, while others prefer it not to be too noticeable. It all depends on you! Hearing aids are just like any other piece of jewelry you wear. You can pick the style, color, and size that suits your hearing loss. Think about what your hearing aid should say about you. Or if it shouldn’t.
Are you more likely to go out than to stay in?
Do you prefer to go out for dinner or watch TV at home? Hearing aids can be tailored to suit your lifestyle. You will be exposed to lots of background noise if you go outside. This is where you have the most difficulty hearing conversations. Make sure your hearing aid reduces background noise and improves speech. If you are more likely to stay in and read a book, or have a conversation with a friend over tea, this might not be as important.
Are you interested in streaming music and TV to your hearing aid?
Bluetooth hearing aids are designed for connectivity if you are an avid smartphone user. Many hearing aids offer Bluetooth 2.4GHz connectivity (Made For iPhone), which will allow you to connect your iOS devices (Apple Products) directly to your hearing aids. It is possible to stream directly from Android phones. This solution is expected to be available in 2019. To stream directly from Android phones, you will need an assistive hearing device. The same applies to TV and radio. If you have 2.4GHz internet connectivity, you can control audio streaming from your phone.
Would I like to use my smartphone for managing my hearing aid?
Today’s hearing aids can do much more than just amplify sound. You can even get apps for your smartphone to personalize your listening experience with Artificial Intelligence or track your activity, for example. These features can be managed via your smartphone. If you already have one and enjoy using it, you can get additional features on top of the hearing aid-specific sound features.
Do you find it difficult to hear soft sounds?
Loud sounds are easy to hear for most people. However, if you have hearing loss, the volume of the softer sounds, such as birds chirping or the rustling newspaper, can sometimes decrease. Sometimes they can disappear completely. You should look for a hearing aid that can produce ambient, soft sounds if you don’t remember them.
How is the work environment?
It’s quite a different experience to work on a construction site, in a theater, or in an office. Your office might be noisy. Consider your workplace and decide if you will need a hearing aid to reduce background noise. Are you looking for one that can capture soft sounds or one that can handle the acoustics in large venues?
What are the most important places I need to hear?
Are you an active participant in sports? Do you host large lectures, sail on the ocean, or go to religious services? No matter what your most important listening moments may be, your hearing aid should capture them. Some hearing aids are better for music than others. Some hearing aids are capable of almost everything! Make sure your hearing aids provide the best support possible in all your favorite moments.
How do I get started …??
We recommend that you take a hearing test if you have not done so yet.. A hearing care professional will be able to answer any questions you have and help you find the best solution.
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