A hearing aid will not cure your hearing loss. However, the device will help you hear better, communicate effectively, and get more enjoyment out of life. Modern hearing aids are mini computers with extensive high-tech features. With all of the selections and options available today, hearing aids can be a confusing subject for many people. Following is information to help you understand the world of hearing aids.
Do I Need A Hearing Aid?
The need for a hearing aid must exist before going any further in a discussion regarding the features and applications of hearing aids. A hearing impairment displays the following signs you may notice:
- People are difficult to understand when you are communicating with them.
- You frequently ask others to repeat themselves.
- You prefer turning up the volume of television and radio.
- You find yourself having difficulty hearing others on the telephone.
- Becoming impatient, irritable, and withdrawn is easy for you.
- You strain to understand group conversations.
- Starting conversations is something you avoid.
These symptoms are indicative of a need to consult hearing healthcare professionals for a hearing exam to evaluate the need for a hearing aid.
Getting A Hearing Aid
It is wise to consider getting a hearing evaluation with a healthcare provider to determine the type and severity of your hearing loss. The assessments include:
- Medical examination. A licensed physician will examine your ear, nose, and throat to rule out medical reasons for your hearing loss such as infections, injuries, or tumors.
- Audiological examination. An audiogram involves a hearing evaluation by a hearing health professional to determine the type and severity of your hearing impairment.
What To Look For When Purchasing A Hearing Aid
Buying a hearing aid can overwhelm a consumer due to the number of choices available today. However, there are five key things to consider when making your purchase. These features include:
- Directionality. A hearing aid must have a system of directional microphones to focus on specific sounds around you.
- Noise reduction. Choose hearing aids with a noise reduction algorithm to distinguish speech from noise.
- Hearing aids are available in many styles so find aids that work for you regarding comfort, the degree of your hearing loss, dexterity, and personal taste.
- Choose a hearing aid that can connect to everyday devices using Bluetooth or other streaming technology. You can fine-tune your hearing aids with a cell phone!
- Search for a hearing aid that offers superb feedback control as this will make your wearing experience more comfortable.
Paying For A Hearing Aid
Check with your health insurance company regarding assistance for the purchase of a hearing aid. Although Medicare part A and B do not cover the cost of hearing aids, some Medicare Advantage plans do so check it out. There are also programs and foundations that offer financial assistance with the purchase of hearing aids. The Hearing Loss Association of America can assist you in finding possible sources of help.
The days of the hearing trumpet are behind us thank goodness. The hearing aids of today are sleek and powerful devices that can make a big difference in the way you communicate with the world around you. Schedule that hearing evaluation today.
