So Many Options - How To Choose Hearing Aids That Are Best For You
There are so many options and so much information available when looking at new hearing aids. Constantly improving technologies, new research, and a number of different manufacturers and styles available all can make it overwhelming trying to decide what hearing aid is going to work best for you.
At Circle Hearing, when we consult with our clients, we break it down to 3 main factors that should consider when determining the right hearing aid for you.
Hearing Loss- Different styles of hearing aids will be more suitable for different types and configurations of hearing loss. Most hearing losses like high frequency hearing losses will get best results from open fittings or RIC styles hearing aids. Where a flat loss will benefit from a tighter fit, or custom hearing aids. The sound will be better and give you an overall better experience. Your hearing professional can help steer you in the right direction regarding the ideal style/ fit for your specific hearing loss.
Lifestyle- Hearing aids come in a number of different technology levels. Someone that is living in a retirement home and watching TV most of the day will be in different and less demanding listening situations than someone that is working full-time and attending multiple meetings with groups of people on a daily basis. Other factors to consider are: medical issues that might affect your dexterity, like arthritis, and if you like to travel away from home often. Rechargeable aids can be very convenient and are helpful for those that may have trouble dealing with tiny hearing aid batteries on a regular basis, but if you travel or camp a lot hearing aids with conventional batteries might be a better option if you dont have consistent access to a power source.
Budget- This is usually one of the biggest concerns for people as they begin looking at hearing aids. As a general rule of thumb, you don't want to go into debt for hearing aids, but you also want to get features that will help you get the most benefit out of your devices. We recommend getting the best level of technology that you can comfortably afford. If you can’t afford what you need, a lower level of tech is better than going without. You and your Hearing Professional can work together to get the most out of the hearing aids you decide to go with.