How to Select Hearing Aids

Most of us will gradually lose our hearing acuity as we age and will have to be fitted with hearing aids. There are many types for varying degrees of hearing loss ranging from mild to severe. Hearing aids also come in a variety of shapes, sizes and prices. Your doctor and audiologist will help you to select the type that fits your lifestyle and profile.

This article will offer some tips and advice for selecting hearing aids.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. For best results always choose hearing aids that will help you hear better, improve the quality of your life and meet your goals. Learn what is available on the market. Don't base it solely on pricing. The prices range from $1,000 to $6,000 for a pair. Ask the audiologist about the special features that each type offers.
2. Understand all the features and how each type of hearing aid works. For example: in-ear for mild to profound hearing loss, in-canal for mild to moderate hearing loss, behind-the-ear and open-ear for mild to severe cases.
3. Set your goals. Write a list of questions to ask the healthcare giver. For example: What is wrong with my hearing? What hope will hearing aids give me? How much will my hearing improve?
4. Once you've selected the type of hearing aid that suits you, then you can contact the audiologist or speech language expert about how to join in communication therapy.

Tips & Warnings

• This article is not a substitute for seeking professional medical help.