A Guide to Hearing Aids: What Every Senior Should Know
When you age, most people begin to experience some level of hearing loss. This loss of hearing can make everyday tasks seem a little more difficult, from visiting with friends to listening to the news. A hearing aid can improve your quality of life. This guide explores the basics of new hearing aids.
Most Common Types of Hearing Aids
The two most common types of hearing aids are digital and analog (non-digital). Analog hearing aids are the older model hearing aids without any added features. The analog hearing aids are effective, but you might notice more feedback and background noise. With digital hearing aids, you get a smaller product with clear sound. There's less feedback and amplification of background noise than with the analog style. Also, some models of digital hearing aid models allow you to pair up with your smartphone through a wireless feature.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your First Hearing Aid
Hearing aids are an investment, and here are some things to consider when deciding which pair to buy:
- You need to set a budget before you start looking at your options. The cost of a new pair of hearing aids ranges between $90 and $4,000.
- It's a good idea to know where you're going to be wearing your hearing aids the most, such as crowded rooms where you need to hamper background noises or at home with few background noises.
- The extent of your hearing loss may dictate the style and model of hearing aids you can use.
These are only a few of the things to consider.
Potential Limitations and Side Effects of Using a Hearing Aid
There are some limitations and side effects of using a hearing aid, such as:
- Headaches, especially when in noisy locations
- Discomfort
- Feedback noise
- Amplified noise in the background can make it difficult to pick out a single speaker.
- Batteries that give out
- Sound quality may vary
You might experience some or all of these issues.
How to Keep Your Hearing Aids Working Properly
When you need your hearing aids, you want them in top form. Here are some things you can do to keep them in tip-top shape:
- Handle them carefully
- Don't submerge them in water
- Keep up with your follow-up doctor visits
- Clean your hearing aids
- When not in use, keep your hearing aids turned off
- Change the batteries
With routine care, your hearing aids can do a great job of helping you hear.
Tips to Make It Easier to Use Your New Hearing Aid
It can take a little time for your hearing aids to feel natural. There are some things you can do to make the process easier, such as:
- Start by wearing your new hearing aids only at home
- Look for classes for wearing hearing aids
- Go to your follow-up doctor's appointments
- Take breaks from wearing your hearing aids when you feel frustrated, which you should expect
You'll feel like you've been wearing them your entire life before you know it.
Partner With Senior Helpers Jersey Shore
A hearing loss might not be the only thing making life a little more challenging, and as a senior, you might need help with daily tasks in Vineland, Atlantic City, Absecon, Egg Harbor Township, Bridgeton, Millville, or Mays Landing. Senior Helpers Jersey Shore is ready to step and help you out. Contact us today!