Hearing aids come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, sizes, and technology levels. The best hearing aid for each patient is determined by a variety of factors including the type and degree of hearing loss, budget, and lifestyle.
Hearing loss is unique. There’s no definite answer to the question “What kind of hearing aids would work best for me?” because hearing loss is different for each person. In this blog post, we will discuss various factors you need to consider to ensure that you pick the best hearing instrument for you.
Ready? Let’s start with –
Type of Hearing Loss
There are 3 major types of hearing loss – conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. The best type of hearing aid for you will be greatly dependent on the type and severity of your hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss
This type of hearing loss occurs when sound cannot effectively pass from the outer ear to the inner ear. This can be caused by issues such as blockages in the ear canal, problems with the middle ear bones, or fluid in the middle ear.
Sensorineural hearing loss
This type of hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways that transmit sound from the inner ear to the brain. It can be caused by exposure to loud noise, aging, diseases, or genetic factors. In most cases, sensorineural hearing loss is irreversible. Hearing aids may be used to address sensorineural hearing loss.
Mixed hearing loss
This is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. It occurs when there is both an outer or middle ear issue and damage to the inner ear or nerve pathways. Treatment for mixed hearing loss may involve a combination of hearing aids, medical intervention, or surgery.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle is an important factor to consider in hearing aid selection. Hearing aids are designed for various activities and environments. Your physical activities, social activities, work, and hobbies are all essential things to consider when choosing your hearing instrument.
Budget
Hearing aids are an investment. Just like any other device or item on the market, you can find way too cheap hearing aids, over-the-counter hearing aids, and of course, the legit and premium hearing aids that are prescribed and fitted by an audiologist.
If you want to get the most out of your money, getting hearing aids from an audiologist is the best route. The low prices of OTC hearing aids and those marketed online may be attractive, especially if you’re on a budget, but keep in mind that these devices may not give you the hearing improvement that you need and deserve.
Contrary to the common notion that hearing aids from audiologists are expensive, you are actually getting the best value for your money if you get a hearing aid from a hearing care professional. Aside from the device, you can also enjoy the benefits of personalized care and expertise that no over-the-counter or cheap hearing aid can provide.
Technology level
Hearing aids vary not only in terms of style and design but also in the power and features that they carry. Keep in mind that the more features a hearing aid offers, the more costly it will be. In this case, it’s best that you have an idea of what features and technology you need, especially the non-negotiables.
Do you need a hearing aid with long-lasting batteries? Do you need a waterproof hearing aid? Or do you need a device that can be compatible with telecoils and other assistive listening devices?
Don’t hesitate to raise these concerns with your audiologist so it will be easier for you to choose the best hearing aid.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids in New Albany, IN
Doctors Hearing Care gives you access to the best audiologists and hearing aids in New Albany, IN.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!