Many men and women dislike the idea of wearing hearing aids. They don't like experiencing reduced abilities while growing older, and they worry about the devices being too visible. These individuals also may have previously heard about the equipment not being effective enough. Yet technological improvements have significantly increased effectiveness, especially with multiple types of products available now. Certain designs work better for different men and women. In addition, manufacturers produce much smaller and less noticeable devices than was the case years ago.
No Need for Embarrassment
There's no reason for anyone to feel embarrassed by a certain amount of hearing loss as they reach the senior years. This problem is common, and the person probably doesn't realize that quite a few acquaintances wear hearing aids. In fact, about one-third of men and women between 64 and 75 years of age deal with some level of hearing loss. That number increases to almost 50 percent after age 75.
How It Works
Powered by a tiny battery, hearing aids combine a microphone, amplifier, and speaker. The microphone receives sound and converts it to electrical signals. After amplification, the speaker sends sounds into the ear.
Analog and Digital Design
The devices originally were produced in analog versions only, but digital ones are available now as well. People report better satisfaction with the digital models, but many consumers appreciate the substantially lower cost of analog devices. That's important for individuals whose health insurance does not cover this equipment.
However, people who routinely must listen carefully in a noisy environment need higher-quality products. The devices filter out extraneous sound, such as that occurring in a busy restaurant dining room. These hearing aids suppress background noise while simultaneously amplifying sounds the wearer wants to hear. The technology allows it to identify wanted and unwanted sounds by the frequencies.
Trial Periods for Satisfaction
Even with improvements in manufacturing, some audiology patients experience dissatisfaction with the first hearing aids they try. These individuals should not feel shy about returning the devices, as audiologists want their patients to enjoy a remarkable improvement in hearing.
Audiology clinics generally offer trial periods, such as 30 days. Most states require 30- to 60-day trial periods. During that time, patients can return the products and try something different. Before buying hearing aids, consumers should learn about the refund policy and make sure details are included in the paperwork. Some clinics require a small return fee.
Anyone who is ready to improve life with better hearing may contact an audiology clinic at the earliest convenience.
For more information on hearing aids, contact a supplier.
