Receiving a hearing impairment diagnosis is life-changing – even for those who have long suspected they had serious auditory issues. For most, the hardest part is adjusting to their new reality. From the sheer number of hearing aid devices on the market to the countless brands, features and technologies that differentiate each, there is so much information to sift through before making an investment.
There aren’t many certainties when
it comes to hearing loss, but one thing is for sure: the nature of the
condition will determine the best remedy. There’s no one-size-fits-all
treatment. Some diagnoses require surgical intervention, while others will benefit
from hearing aids
alone. Those diagnosed with profound hearing loss may be better suited to a
cochlear implant.
Sensorineural hearing loss is the
most common form of permanent hearing impairment and is caused by damage to
inner ear structures or the auditory nerve. Due to its prevalence, many
assistive technologies have been developed specifically to restore hearing for
sensorineural sufferers.
If you’ve been diagnosed with
sensorineural hearing impairment, there are likely hundreds of devices on the
market that may be suitable for you. On the contrary, if you suffer from a more
niche aural issue, such as auditory neuropathy – whereby the inner ear
struggles to send sound to the brain – you’ll likely need a specialised aid.
Speak to your audiologist for advice relevant to your condition.
Choosing a hearing aid doesn’t
have to be overwhelming. If you’re in the midst of researching devices, the
following key pieces of advice will help you to determine which product is best
for your needs.
1. Your
hearing requirements
Before selecting a top-of-the-line
device based on looks and features alone, it’s crucial you take the time to
discuss your hearing difficulties with your audiologist so they can assess your
condition and recommend suitable treatment options. Most importantly, your
specialist will set reasonable expectations as to the level of improvement you
can expect to gain.
Many hearing devices are designed
to combat specific symptoms – such as tinnitus – so there’s no use investing in
a product that may not suit your needs.
2. Features
and technology
Your specific hearing needs will
likely dictate the features your device will be equipped with. So, it’s a good
idea to discuss your diagnosis with your audiologist and make a list of the
most beneficial technologies for your requirements
3.
Budget
Cost is, unsurprisingly, one of
the biggest prohibiting factors in obtaining treatment for hearing loss. Most hearing
aids in melbourne range from AU$1,000 to more than $6,000
each, depending on the sophistication. That’s a significant sum for most, but
when you consider that devices often have to be updated every few years, it’s
even more substantial.
Data analysis in the United States has shown that ownership of hearing aids is lowest among financially disadvantaged populations, with many specifically signaling prices as major obstacles.
Thankfully, in Australia, there
are tax and private health fund rebates available, along with financial
assistance for pensioners and veterans. Many audiology clinics also offer
payment plans. For more information and eligibility, read our pricing page.
4. Hearing
aid type
Once you’ve picked a device that’s
both affordable and suitable, the next step is to choose a style. There are
three main types of hearing aids: daily wear in the ear (ITE),
daily wear behind-the-ear (BTE) and extended wear. Each has its pros and cons
and comes in an array of styles.
Daily wear ITEs are very small
devices, fitting snugly into the ear or ear canal. They’re typically
recommended for mild to moderate hearing loss. The second type – daily wear
BTEs – is the one you’ll probably recognise. They wrap around the outside of
the ear, with a tube directing sound inside. Extended wear hearing aids like
the Lyric Invisible Hearing Aids are the most
versatile, as they can be left in during all sorts of activities, from
showering to exercising and wearing headphones. Take some time to consider
which type will best accommodate your lifestyle.
5.
Aesthetics
Both
technology and medical understanding of the ear have improved exponentially
over the last few decades. Say goodbye to the bulky, old-fashioned hearing
devices of yesteryear. Today, you can select a hearing aid that looks sleek
without blowing your budget.
Invisible in the canal (IIC) and completely in the canal (CIC)
devices are the most visually appealing choices, as they’re practically
undetectable from the outside. However, BTE devices are just as stylish these
days and can be custom-made to match the user’s skin tone, style or hair
colour.
For more advice on how to select a suitable hearing aid, click here.
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