Hearing Aids: How to Choose the Right One for You

Most individuals experiencing hearing loss can significantly improve their auditory abilities by using a hearing aid. Given the variety of styles accessible, it’s crucial to select the most suitable one. While your audiologist will offer guidance and support, understanding the factors that might impact your choice can be beneficial.

Understand Your Level of Hearing Loss

To understand your level of hearing loss, your audiologist will examine your ears with a hearing test. Determining the extent of your hearing loss plays a crucial role in choosing the right hearing aid for your needs. Identifying whether your condition ranges from mild to profound helps in understanding the type of device that would best suit you. Those with more severe hearing loss might require more powerful devices, while individuals with milder losses may find success with different options. Seeking a thorough evaluation from an audiologist enables a clear understanding of your level of hearing loss and assists in selecting the most appropriate and comfortable solution tailored to your specific requirements.

Consider the Different Styles of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids come in various styles, such as behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) and in the canal (ITC), being the three most common types. Certain styles suit specific types of hearing loss, so seeking advice from your audiologist is essential. For most individuals with hearing loss, BTE, ITE and ITC hearing devices are suitable. A behind-the-ear hearing aid is positioned behind your ear, with an earpiece resting in the outer ear canal.

Though more visible than other styles, they are suitable for individuals with mild-to-profound hearing loss. Both ITE and ITC devices offer a discreet look, with ITE aids positioned in the outer bowl of your ear and ITC devices placed within the ear canal itself. Talk with your audiologist about the different styles and if one of these hearing aid might be right for you.

Aesthetic Preferences

Considering the appearance of your hearing aid is an integral aspect when making your choice. For example, if discreetness is crucial to you, in-the-ear hearing aids, being less visible, might be the optimal choice. Conversely, behind-the-ear hearing aids may suit individuals who prefer a more noticeable device or value easy removal and insertion. As you acclimate to wearing hearing aids, their removal and insertion become easier regardless of their type.

Ultimately, personal preferences regarding visibility and ease of handling should guide your decision in selecting the most suitable hearing aid. Consulting with audiologists and exploring different styles and customization options allows for a tailored choice that satisfies both hearing requirements and aesthetic desires.

Technology Preferences

Most modern hearing aids have a variety of technological advancements. Identifying your preferred technological features can significantly influence the selection of the most suitable hearing aid for you.

For example, if you are experiencing tinnitus – a persistent ringing in the ears stemming from hearing loss – opting for hearing aids with a masking feature, will help in reducing the symptoms of your tinnitus.

Another feature can include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing to seamlessly connect to your cellphone or other devices you may have. Ask your audiologist about the different features and advancements in technology for hearing aids, this can help to provide a better listening experience.

Comfort Level

When selecting the perfect hearing aid, comfort plays a pivotal role in ensuring a positive experience. The comfort level of a hearing aid directly impacts daily wear and satisfaction. Factors such as the fit within the ear canal or behind the ear, the device’s weight and how securely it stays in place throughout the day significantly influence comfort. Some individuals might prioritize discreetness, favoring smaller models that snugly fit within the ear canal, while others may find behind-the-ear devices more comfortable due to their stability and ease of adjustment.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Lastly, your lifestyle will play a role in what hearing aids will be best for you. If you are an active person and require the hearing aids to remain snugly fit in your ear without falling out, ITE or ITC hearing aids might be the right choice for you. If you work in a noisy environment you might consider a hearing aid that can reduce that background noise, this will allow you to follow along during conversations.

If you want to learn more about what hearing aid might be the right choice for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one a friendly team member at HEARINC today. Call us today at (234) 224-1123 or (234) 224-1124.