Getting your hearing checked is really the biggest hurdle in moving towards better hearing. For many people that first step is the hardest. My clients often express fear and anxiety about finding out if their hearing is bad and what happens if they need hearing aids? This emotional process feels very similar to getting eyeglasses, but it seems there is an overwhelming number of options when it comes to hearing aids. Deciding which type of hearing professional to see or which style of hearing aids are best can leave the customer with a lot to consider. This overload of information and decisions may cause a person to freeze and making them unsure of where to start.
Start with a hearing test
The process of treating hearing loss is more like a journey than a destination, but it always starts with a test. You aren’t alone and there are resources to help you hear better! Hearing loss is an emotional struggle that can leave people feeling isolated, frustrated, depressed and separated from others. This can make things seem a lot more complicated, but taking simple steps one at a time can ensure success.
I wish more people knew that getting a hearing test doesn’t always mean you have hearing loss and, like anything with our health, early detection is key to higher success and adaptation.
Where to get a hearing test
Once you’re ready for that hearing test, where do you go? Finding a provider that you like and can trust is important to your success. Sometimes friends or family have a referral for you, or you can look up reviews online. When you meet with a provider, ask all the questions you need to get clarity on what is happening with your ears and what you may need for treatment.
Choosing hearing devices
If you are a candidate for hearing devices and you want to know how to choose the proper devices, it’s important to know that not all hearing aids are for everybody. Each person has a unique hearing loss, ear shape and lifestyle. So, although you might have chosen a provider based on a referral, they may suggest something different than what your friend got. That’s good because it means the provider is treating you like an individual and recommending based on your unique needs.
The cause of hearing loss also helps determine what type of treatment is needed. It’s your provider’s job to analyze your loss and give you recommendations. You can ask what the best choice would be, what’s the most cost-effective option and what’s the least expensive that would do the job. Letting them know what is important to you will help them navigate your options. While there are likely many choices, it can be overwhelming to present them all to you. There is usually one solution that is the clear choice, and your provider will likely share that with you first.
Again, choosing hearing aids can be an emotional choice, so it’s important to have a provider you trust and who understands your needs. If you don’t trust them, it doesn’t matter how great the hearing aid is or how perfect it is for you - you’ll always question the decision. This is also why I recommend bringing a trusted friend or loved one to your appointment, because they can help you with the choice and feel good about it.
Over-the-counter devices vs. prescription hearing aids
When it comes to over-the-counter vs. prescription hearing aids through a provider, consider what you need:
- Do you want support with your adaptation to hearing aids?
- How severe is your hearing loss?
- Are you sure the hearing issue you have is right for OTC hearing aids?
Over-the-counter hearing aids are less expensive, but the settings are generic and won’t do much good for complicated hearing loss or for people who want support to maximize their success. What you will find with lower price points is that many more people will purchase these, and their expectations will be low. This can yield positive reviews because even if it doesn’t work great, you are less likely to be upset about it. However, if you spend a few thousand dollars on devices, expectations are high and any problems, even small, will be much more upsetting.
So, start your research by choosing the right provider. They will help you navigate the choices available to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and if you have any problems or concerns, always reach out and let them know. HearingLife has offices in 42 states at more than 600 locations ready to help you navigate your first hearing test to your newest set of high-tech hearing devices. Schedule an appointment today.
