If you have been diagnosed with a hearing loss, your audiologist may recommend hearing aids as a part of your treatment plan. Today’s hearing aids provide better quality hearing than ever before. Technology has come a long way in recent years, and with these advancements comes an array of options.
Narrowing the choices down can be tough, but your audiologist will guide you through the process. Here are few important things you will discuss with your audiologist when selecting a hearing aid.
- What are your hearing needs?
- First, your audiologist will assess your hearing and discuss the results with you. The hearing aid that best suits you needs will need to have the correct amount of amplification for your particular loss. Some hearing losses require hearing aids with more power and others require less. Based on your hearing loss, your audiologist may recommend an earmold or even a particular style of hearing aid. Your audiologist will discuss all this information with you to find what will work best.
- What are your lifestyle needs?
- During your communication evaluation, your audiologist will discuss your lifestyle. This is because your lifestyle plays an important role in both the style and technology level you will need . Your lifestyle may require a particular style of hearing aid or often, will determine the level of technology that is best suited for you. The more active your lifestyle, the higher level technology you will need. It is important to note that the price is often associated with the technology level, rather than the style. This is why it is so important that your audiologist understands your lifestyle needs.
- What is your cosmetic preference?
- Cosmetic preference is a key factor in choosing a hearing aid. Since you’ll be wearing it every day, it not only needs to feel good but appeal to your confidence.
- Hearing aids are available in a variety of sizes and styles, some visible while others are implanted deep within the ear canal, rendering them virtually undetectable. Many are custom-molded to fit each individual’s ears.
- Click here to learn more about hearing aid styles.
- What is your budget?
- Finally, there is cost. Hearing aids can range in price from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars apiece. Price will be a factor, but be sure to consider your specific hearing needs when making this decision.
- Investing in a cheap hearing aid that is ineffective is a waste of money; conversely, you don’t want to overspend on features that won’t benefit you. Your audiologist can offer suggestions that will point you in the right direction.
Call Watauga Hearing at (423) 928-1901 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
