What You Need to Know About Hearing Aids
Are you in denial about the possibility that you are experiencing hearing loss? Perhaps your spouse or children keep bringing it up. Maybe they’ve noticed you ask them to repeat a question several times or seem confused during conversations. Perhaps you turn the volume up so high when watching TV that it blasts their ears.
Are you in denial about the possibility that you are experiencing hearing loss? Perhaps your spouse or children keep bringing it up. Maybe they’ve noticed you ask them to repeat a question several times or seem confused during conversations. Perhaps you turn the volume up so high when watching TV that it blasts their ears.
Many people are reluctant to accept that they don’t hear as well as they once did.
Hearing loss and the need to wear aids causes some people to feel that they are aging too rapidly and that their bodies are failing them. They may be embarrassed and feel that this will keep them from enjoying their favorite activities.
While hearing loss is a normal part of the aging process for many people, it can happen to people of any age for a variety of reasons. The negative stigma isn’t as strong as it once was. Part of that is because the instruments have changed dramatically. They were once extremely obvious and cumbersome. The latest models are so small and discrete that most people won’t even know you’re wearing them.
If it’s determined that you would benefit from hearing aids, he/she will explain the different choices to you. There are many brands on the market and each brand has a long list of models. Some are worn inside the ear, making them completely invisible. Others are wireless, digital or water-resistant. The specialist will explain the advantages and challenges of each type of hearing aid to you and help you find the best option to meet your unique situation.
The specialist will work with you to ensure you know how to operate your new device. Since they are electronic equipment, special care and maintenance is needed to extend their life and keep them working to the highest possible level. The specialist will explain all of this to you and suggest equipment and accessories that will help you carry out this task.
A case will help you keep your hearing aids safe when they are not in use. Cleaning kits are available that contain all of the tools and supplies needed to keep your hearing aids clean and sanitary. If you are frequently on the go, cleaning wipes will come in handy. Special lotions are sold to keep ears from becoming dry or irritated. It is always a good idea to keep extra batteries on hand. Your hearing instrument specialist may sell these items at his office.
Kathryn B Rogers, M.A., CCC/A, received her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Hearing from the University of Texas at Austin in May, 1976. She became a Licensed Hearing Aid Dispenser in 1978. She returned to Austin where she recieved a Master of Arts degree in Audiology in December 1982, and was certified by ASHA as a Certified Audiologist following her graduation. Visit Audiology & Hearing Aids of the Woodlands for updated hearing aid information.
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