Are you considering purchasing hearing aids but don’t know where to start? It can be overwhelming with all of the different styles and features, but don’t worry, our team here at Robillard Hearing Centres specializes in helping clients make informed choices when it comes to hearing aids.
On that note, we’ve received plenty of questions from clients over the years. Today, let’s address several of them, offering purchasing tips along the way. Let’s dig in.
What Are Hearing Aids?
In short, these devices amplify sound to help individuals restore their perception of the world around them. They are commonly used when surgeries or other procedures cannot adequately address hearing loss in a patient. Hearing aids are available in a variety of configurations and feature sets to accommodate a wide array of individual needs.
How Do Hearing Aids Work?
When it comes to the insides of hearing aids, there are three main parts. First, there’s a microphone that picks up audio. This is then filtered through an amplifier as a digital signal that is boosted before, finally, a built-in speaker produces the sound. In addition, note that there are two signal types, known as analog and digital. In short, these each handle the process of converting soundwaves differently; analog turns them into electrical signals, whereas digital changes them into numbered codes.
How Do You Know if You Need Hearing Aids?
If you’re hard of hearing, hearing aid technology can make everyday life much more convenient and enjoyable! That said, if you’re unsure whether you’re exhibiting signs of hearing loss, consulting the signs as explored in medical information sites can be handy. These include family members needing to repeat themselves, audio sounding muffled or garbled, sensitivity, and otherwise. Otherwise, consider alternative options including our own online hearing diagnostic tool.
However, note that while it’s a good idea to brush up on the fundamentals solo, be careful not to overdo it on your own and self-diagnose your condition; it’s important to always get a dedicated hearing test if you notice any change in your hearing. That way, an onsite audiologist can diagnose your condition and help make well-informed recommendations based on their experience. This will also make it easier to narrow down the hearing aid options and find the one most suitable for your needs. We offer free hearing tests at any of our 12 locations (for Ontario residents), so there’s nothing to lose other than your frustrations!
How to Choose the Correct Hearing Aid for Your Needs
Deciding on a style of hearing aid best suited for your individual needs will depend on a variety of factors. These include the severity of your hearing loss, whether one or both ears are equally affected, and even your lifestyle. Comfort will also play a role as each ear has a unique shape, so you’ll want to ensure what you choose is something you’ll want to wear rather than leave out. You should also bear in mind that a hearing aid will never fully restore your hearing, though, with such a high-quality and dependable device, it will help to increase your perception and awareness.
Again, working with a certified and experienced audiologist makes this process much smoother and, if anything, rather enjoyable. They will be able to find something within your budget that offers additional handy features, though we recommend against letting a high or low price dictate the device you choose – your hearing quality, needs, and satisfaction should always take top priority! If you require a cost-effective solution that doesn’t require the full amount upfront, consider our available financing options. These include three-month plans with zero interest and low-interest solutions for between one and five years.
How to Take Care of and Maintain Hearing Aids
We highly recommend taking the following precautions when it comes to maintaining your hearing aids. These will better ensure longevity and performance efficiency.
- Not being rough with your devices
- Ensuring your hands are clean before handling
- Keeping them stored safely away from moisture and children
- Keeping battery contacts clean and free of wax
- Not wearing them in wet conditions
Of course, we’re always happy to help you look after your hearing aids to ensure maximum longevity and optimal performance, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
How Long Does It Take To Get Used to Hearing Aids?
Generally, it can take a few weeks to several months to get fully comfortable with using hearing aids, though this depends on the specific model you choose and how they fit in your ears. In addition, new clients may need to visit their audiologist so the amplification can be fine-tuned to ensure optimal comfort. Of course, you’ll notice improved hearing almost right away, but it might come as a bit of a shock or feel overwhelming. Give it time and before long, you’ll hardly even notice that they’re in!
What Are the Different Features of Hearing Aids?
Hearing aid technology has come a long way over the years, and there have been countless innovations as a result! Just some of the features that might be included in the model you choose include any of the following:
- Noise reduction
- Multiple directional microphones for improved audio signals
- Built-in wireless technologies like Bluetooth, allowing pairing with smart devices, including your phone, tablet, laptop, or even your television
- Remote controls
- Rechargeable batteries
To find out which features are included in a specific model, don’t hesitate to speak to one of our hearing professionals and ask about the hearing aids that interest you.
Tips for Selecting Hearing Aids
First off, consider whether you’re exhibiting any signs of hearing loss. If you suspect that something isn’t quite right, the best approach is to have a hearing test performed on each ear as a precaution. An audiologist will then make recommendations on the appropriate solution. This will make it easier to select hearing aids and eliminate guesswork. It’s also important to not shop with your budget in mind but rather with a focus on your precise needs. After all, a higher or lower price doesn’t mean that one set of hearing aids is better for you specifically than another!
Want to learn more about the fundamentals of hearing aid technology, or are you interested in booking a hearing test? We’re happy to help! Reach out to us at Robillard Hearing Centres today to get started.