Not every brand or style of hearing aid meets the needs of all individuals. Choosing a hearing aid that is right for you depends on the extent of your hearing loss as well as your preferences. Although a hearing aid cannot restore your hearing to normal, it can amplify sounds to improve your hearing. You need to select a device that works best for you and then give yourself time to adjust.
Step 1
Compare a variety of different brands and models before making a choice. Cost is not the only factor to consider (see Resources). Find out the number of channels and if the manufacturer offers a warranty. Some better models of hearing aids offer warranties that cover both parts and labor for up to three years. Warranties provide protection covering fit and defects in workmanship.
Step 2
Find out if a hearing aid comes with a trial period. You can't always know immediately if a hearing aid will work for you. It can take some people several months to get used to wearing one. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders recommends that individuals work with their audiologists until they feel completely comfortable wearing a hearing aid and operating its various features.
Step 3
Consider your lifestyle. Individuals who are highly active may require more advanced features. You should compare both the value and function of a hearing aid before you choose.
Step 4
Think about an in-the-canal hearing aid if you only have mild hearing loss. These are small and not as visible in the ear. One drawback is the cost, as this type of hearing aid can be expensive. In addition to having a short battery life, because of their small size, in-the-canal hearing aids are difficult for some people to handle and may not offer volume control.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about both the advantages and disadvantages of wearing an in-the-ear hearing aid. These are larger but work well for people with moderate to severe hearing loss. Besides being noticeable, this type of hearing aid has a tendency to pick up distracting background noises, although most people find them easier to handle and insert in the ear.
Step 6
Look at the different kinds of behind-the-ear hearing aids that you can purchase. These can be used for any kind of hearing loss, as they work to amplify sound better than other styles of hearing aids. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are often the style selected for young children for safety reasons as they are more durable. Another advantage is that new ear molds can be made as a child grows without having to purchase a new hearing aid.
