Dos and Don’ts of Hearing Aid Selection

It's time to choose a new hearing aid, a job that can seem overwhelming. While choosing the device that you will wear every day for the next few years is a big task; all you need to know is a few simple do's and don'ts to make the best choice.

Do shop with a friend

If you're shopping for a new hearing aid, it's a good idea to get help. You can do some research together, talk about hearing aid styles, and decide what features matter most to you. Bring a friend with you when you visit the audiologist. Two people will hear and remember more than one, so you'll have help taking in all the information you'll be given and have someone discuss the decision with.

Don't choose a hearing device until you know what you want

There's a lot to consider when you choose hearing aids. You need to decide what programs and features matter to you and will fit your hearing needs and your lifestyle. Do you lead an active life, or are you often at home? Do you often go to places with a lot of background noise? Do you struggle to follow conversations? What do you want from your hearing aid? Whatever your hearing needs, there are programs designed to make it easier for you to hear in any environment.

Hearing aids come in various styles, from behind-the-ear (BTE) devices to in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids and even small devices that sit within your ear canal and are almost invisible. Some are more powerful, so consider your level of hearing loss and the power requirements of the programs you want to use.

Don't buy a hearing aid before getting a hearing test

A lot of people are now buying hearing devices online or looking for hearing aids in outlet stores to keep costs down. This might seem like a good idea for your bank account, but it's the worst thing you can do for your hearing health. Getting a hearing test is the first step towards finding a hearing aid that will actually help you, that will match your needs, and that will be a useful tool rather than just a hassle. 

No one wants to purchase a hearing aid and then find that it's not powerful enough to help you hear or that it doesn't fit your needs. Before choosing a hearing aid, get a comprehensive hearing assessment, which should include a medical history and a discussion about your hearing needs and lifestyle, so you'll have all the information you need to make the best decision for you.

Don't rush the decision

Choosing new hearing aids is a big decision, and you want to make the right choice. When buying hearing aids, take the time to ask any questions you might have to make sure you're getting the right device for you and your needs. By asking questions, you can get all the information you need to make an informed choice.