50+ Lifestyles

Ask the Audiologist

By Margaret Christiansen, Au.D.,CCC-A
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

There are so many hearing aid options…what is best for me?

You’ve decided you might need hearing aids…Now what? There are many different options available and wading through these options can be overwhelming. Hearing aids come in different shapes, sizes and technology levels. To add to the decisions, hearing aids are now available in two different forms: Over the counter (OTC) and prescription.

Selecting the best hearing aid is an individualized process. There is no one-size fits all approach. Recommendations for hearing aids are based on an individual’s hearing loss, specific listening needs, dexterity and vision limitations and personal preferences.

The first step in the decision-making process is a diagnostic hearing test. This evaluation provides information regarding your degree of hearing loss, what areas of your hearing are affected and where your loss is coming from. Recommendations for medical follow up will be made if appropriate.
After the hearing test, the audiologist will explain the results and make recommendations. If hearing aids are recommended, your audiologist will be a valuable resource in helping you select the most appropriate device for you based on your hearing, needs and budget.

When you are fit with prescription hearing aids, the audiologist will perform Real Ear Measurements to fine tune and adjust the aids based on your hearing loss and ear shape. This helps ensure you are receiving the appropriate help for your loss and have the best experience with your hearing aids. Information will be provided on how to use and care for your aids and instruction on insertion and removal of your devices.
If you experience difficulties with your aids or have changes in your hearing, the audiologist can adjust how the hearing aids are working to ensure your investment is providing the best benefit for you.

OTC devices are another option to help those with hearing difficulties. These devices are intended to be used by individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. No hearing test is needed and the consumer selects the product that has the features that appeal to them. These aids are designed to be adjusted by the consumer and not intended to be adjusted to prescription targets.

Regardless of your plans for amplification, a hearing test is a good way to start your journey to better hearing. Knowing and understanding your loss is the first step to helping you hear the sounds you’ve been missing!