All hearing aids aren’t created equal but if you’re shopping for hearing devices, you probably already know there are a lot of models out there to compare. Where does a person start? With the wide range of options available, finding the right hearing aid for your needs can seem overwhelming. Finding the right fit means using some strategy – so here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you narrow your search.
DO Take a Friend or Family Member Shopping With You
Someone who is close to you can help you keep track of different options as well as acting as a sounding board for what you most want from your hearing device. Those close to you can help you think of what options would work best for your needs and lifestyle. Shopping with a friend can make the entire experience more enjoyable.
DON’T Let Someone Else Make the Final Decision
While it’s handy to have help weighing the pros and cons of different hearing devices, in the end you should make the decision of which one is the best match. You know your hearing and lifestyle better than anyone else, so when it’s time to determine what will be the most helpful fit, only you will know the real answer. Look for a device that feels comfortable, fits your hearing needs well and works with your budget.
DO Prioritize Features You Need For Your Daily Life
An important part of choosing the right hearing aid is understanding how you use your hearing in your everyday life. For example, if you love get-togethers and socializing, you’ll probably want to prioritize a device with excellent directional microphones to help follow noisy conversations. If your work life involves a lot of telephone calls, it’d be smart to look into options that can stream smart phone calls directly to your hearing aid.
Even if you are unsure if there is a hearing aid that can assist your needs, knowing the settings and symptoms you most want to manage in your hearing loss can point the way to the right device. Talk to us at Neighborhood Hearing Aid Center about specifically how your hearing loss impacts your life. If tinnitus is a distracting part of your hearing, they can suggest models with different tinnitus relief therapies. Perhaps you feel most frustrated by hearing loss in big, noisy public spaces where a telecoil could help you navigate better.
DON’T Get Distracted by Options You Won’t Use
Today there are hearing aids on the market to fit almost every lifestyle and hearing need. Features do contribute to the cost of a hearing aid however, so it’s important to be honest with yourself about the features you will and won’t use. The ability to stream television audio doesn’t do you any good if you don’t like watching television. Wind reducing features may help someone who loves the outdoors, but won’t get used much if you are a homebody.
DO Go With a Reliable Brand Name
Hearing aids are an investment, so you need devices that are durable and dependable. A great bargain may not really be great if it saves you a little money but doesn’t really help your hearing ability. You can talk with your hearing specialist to find hearing aids from reliable companies that lead the field in advancing the field of hearing technology. At Neighborhood Hearing Aid Center, we offer a full selection of hearing devices from the top brands in the industry.
DON’T Get a Hearing Aid Without a Hearing Exam
It is critical to understand how your hearing is damaged if you want to find the best solution for your hearing loss. If your hearing changes, your first step should be to have a hearing exam. The most effective hearing aids today are fitted and programmed specifically to counteract your specific hearing challenges. A hearing aid that isn’t tailored to your hearing needs won’t have the nuanced technology and responsive design that a hearing aid will when it is programmed to suit the results of your hearing test.
DO Learn About Your Device
You’ll be integrating your hearing aids into your everyday life, so you want to know as much about them as possible. Sit down with your hearing specialist to go over how to use and maintain your hearing aids. Be sure you understand how to take advantage of your device’s features. Most hearing specialists will provide you with training for your new devices and can give you advice for adapting to the new way you hear.
Similarly, keep track of the contract for your hearing aid. Understand what the device’s warranty and trial period are, as well as what technical support option you have.
Ready to find the perfect hearing aid? Contact us at Neighborhood Hearing Aid Center to schedule a consultation, hearing test, and hearing aid fitting.