Understanding the Total Package of Hearing Aid Purchases

When a person purchases hearing aids, they are making an investment in their lifestyle. Hearing aids are able to expand friendships, close relationships and even the non-social activities you engage in. I have been told by many patients hearing aids changed their life! Musicians are amazed that they are able to hear the parts of music (and their own voice while singing) better than they could have imagined. So, what is the difference between a purchase of stock internet hearing aids and hearing aids purchased from a local audiologist?

Personalized Hearing Aid Programming

The first appointment with your audiologist will be to determine the type and degree of hearing loss you have. During that appointment, you will discuss your personal needs of hearing such as what you want to be able to do and in what situations. You will be guided toward hearing aids that have the options you would like. Not everyone needs the top-of-the-line hearing aids, so your audiologist will assist you by explaining what programs the various hearing aids can offer. Programs are special settings that will focus on what you want at a particular moment like programs for a noisy restaurant or for listening to TV or music. You can even have programs for riding in the car and focusing on speech behind you!

Personalized Training for Assistive Technology

The majority of people we work with need formal training on using the hearing aid programs and hearing on their cell phone. I see people glaze over the moment I explain all the wonderful features they have at their fingertips. It seems like too many options and too much to learn! However, because you are working with people who teach this information every day, all day long, you can be assured we can slowly introduce you to using the technology until you feel like a professional with your hearing aids! You can come back for small amounts of information until using the aids is second nature to you. The audiology office staff take pride in being able to explain the technology in a way that everyone can understand, even the “technically challenged.” We understand that technology is scary for some people and consider it a privilege to be able to provide appropriate instruction.

Tips to Extend the Use of Hearing Aids

1. Clean the hearing aids at least once a month. Ear wax will build up over time and collect in the wax trap of the part that goes into the ear. You will be taught how to change the disposable wax trap or you can pop into the office and we can change it for you!
2. The microphones on the outside of the hearing aid are where the sound goes into the hearing aid. Dust or debris can dampen the sound. Once a month, take a dry toothbrush (dedicated to your hearing aids) and brush the microphone openings.
3. Apply body care and hair care products before you put the hearing aids on. Fine particles from sprays or powder can settle into the microphone and the control button.
4. Hearing aids that require a single-use battery will need to have the battery changed about once a week. Some batteries last longer and some last less time but one week is a good average. Most of the hearing aids available now have rechargeable batteries that only require putting them into the charger at bedtime. It is a good idea to wipe off the part of the hearing aid that sits in the charger so good electrical contact is made.
5. The hearing aids are electronic devices so they want to be dry and free of significant dust, similar to a phone or computer. Rechargeable hearing aids are the most resistant to moisture issues.
6. Store the hearing aids in a safe location, keep them away from children and pets. They love to chew on them!
7. Protect your hearing aids from extreme heat or cold. It is not a good idea to leave them in a car or any area where the hearing aids can become extremely hot or cold.

Support After Purchase

In my opinion, support in the care and follow-up testing are paramount to enjoying hearing aids. Without the individualized attention to the unique needs of each person we see, the majority of people would not be satisfied with their new purchase. Find an audiologist to select, fit and educate you on the joys of using hearing aids. FBN

By Karen Lynn, Au.D.

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit TrinityHearing.net.

Karon Lynn, Au.D., is a doctor of audiology with 30 years of experience working with hearing impaired individuals. She may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.