You’re well on your way toward better hearing if you’ve recently scheduled a hearing test. You’ve already taken the first step by acknowledging that you could have a hearing problem.
But there is still work to be done after your test because next comes the fitting appointment. It’s a good idea to have questions prepared ahead of time to ensure you get the most out of your fitting.
What kind of hearing impairment do I have?
Your hearing test’s primary purpose is to determine the nature and extent of your hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss is the most frequent type of hearing loss. Noise exposure, certain drugs, head trauma, or even old age can destroy the tiny cells of the inner ear, resulting in this form of hearing loss.
There is no way to reverse sensorineural hearing loss at this time. However, hearing aids can help you hear the noises you’ve been missing. It’s always possible that this type of hearing loss will worsen over time. Protecting your hearing from loud noises and maintaining a balanced diet along with exercise will help you avoid additional hearing loss.
Is there a similar degree of hearing loss in both ears?
Both of your ears will be evaluated during your hearing test. Your audiologist will then show you an audiogram, which will indicate the threshold of the quietest noises you can hear in each ear.
It is pretty rare for each ear to have an equal hearing. One ear may feel like the “good ear” a lot of the time. However, both will have some hearing loss in most situations, though one may be less severe than the other. Because your brain relies on hearing with two ears to detect the direction and closeness of sound, it’s critical to make sure both ears are similarly amplified. This is referred to as sound localization by audiologists.
Which hearing aid is best for my specific hearing loss and way of life?
Due to the analog technology utilized in the past, hearing aids once had a reputation for being bulky and prone to feedback. But that has all changed. Hearing aids now are sleek and digital, with a variety of styles and functions to choose from. Knowing what is available ahead of time can assist you in making a more informed decision. The following are some of the most impressive features available in today’s hearing aids:
- Bluetooth and telecoil enable you to remotely connect to phones, TVs, and even PA systems in public settings, while background suppression makes it easier to hear in noisy environments.
- Artificial intelligence uses GPS to determine your location and automatically adjusts your hearing aids’ listening programs, so you don’t have to.
Depending on their lifestyle, different features will be suited for different people. Some of these features may be worth it if you live an active and social life, but if you rarely go out in public, you may be able to get by with a more basic model.
What should I expect from my hearing aids?
Hearing aids have never been more sophisticated. There are so many different types of hearing aids, features, and technologies to be aware of. Make sure to inquire about features like Bluetooth technology, noise cancellation, and voice recognition. It’s also vital to talk about other areas of your life that may influence the kind of features you can get — hobbies, employment, exercise, and so on.
How long do you think my hearing aids will last?
Hearing aids typically last five to seven years. While this may not appear to be a long time, consider how hard these small devices work for you. Your hearing aids are commonly used when you wake up until you take them out for the best or to wash. You should wear them everywhere you go, which means they should be able to withstand the wear and tear of so much effort.
Add a cleaning and maintenance routine to your nightly sleep routine to ensure you get the most out of your hearing aids. The better you look after your investment, the longer you will be able to enjoy it.
Is there a warranty or insurance coverage?
It is crucial to inquire about insurance because it is often dependent on the manufacturer of your hearing aids. It is a good idea to check with your insurance provider ahead of time to determine if hearing aids are covered. Make careful to ask about any warranty plans or trial periods that may be included with the equipment. This will enable you to put the device to the test!
If you’re ready to set up your fitting appointment, contact us today!