HEARING AID BASICS
There are many hearing aids available with different shapes, sizes, styles, colors, and features. In addition, there are numerous hearing aid manufacturers to choose from. We understand that not all styles or manufacturers are appropriate for every patient, but we pride ourselves in evaluating each patient individually and working with him or her to together decide what is best for that person.
Some of the manufacturers we work with are listed below:
What is in a Hearing Aid?
All hearing aids need certain components to transmit sound from the environment into your ear. Essential parts include a microphone, an amplifier, a receiver, and a battery. See the image below.
What hearing aid is right for you?
There are several important factors to consider when purchasing hearing aids. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type and severity of your hearing loss, your hearing needs and desires, your lifestyle, cosmetic concerns, your previous experience with hearing aids, and your budget. This is not an easy decision to make. Your audiologist will guide you in the process of selecting hearing aids that are best fit for you.
What are the differences in hearing aids?
While all hearing aids have the same basic components, they vary in many ways. Consider comparing hearing aids to other electric devices that you have purchased in the past, such as a television. All televisions have various levels of technology to choose from. Hearing aids range from entry level (basic) to advanced. With each advance in technology comes an increase in the price. In other words, the more "bells and whistles" hearing aids have, the more expensive they will be. Remember, hearing aids are not for entertainment purposes, but to help compensate for a loss that you have and improve your quality of life. This may impact your decision of which level hearing aids you choose to purchase.
More questions on hearing aids and hearing loss?
Check out our Hearing Aids/Hearing loss Q&A page for more commonly asked questions with answers.