Millions of people of all ages across the globe suffer from hearing loss.  While there is no cure for hearing loss, hearing aids can assist in improving the quality of life of those that are faced with this condition.   Choosing the right hearing aid can be an overwhelming and challenging task to face, especially for those that are newcomers to hearing aids.  In this article, we will explore some of the important factors to consider when looking for a hearing aid. We will discuss the importance of having the guidance of a certified audiologist, what the different types of hearing aids are, as well as how return policies of hearing aid devices tend to work. 

Audiologists: The Importance of Working with One 

It’s crucial to work with a certified audiologist when looking for a hearing aid. These are people who are trained professionals in helping you find the right device to meet your specific needs in a hearing aid.  Audiologists are experts in performing hearing evaluations,  which is important to better understand the specific extent of your hearing loss. After a proper evaluation, they will be able to recommend the best hearing aid for your needs. 

In order to easily find an audiologist in your area, you can do a quick search online for ‘audiologists near me’ or if you want to be really confident about the professional you are trusting, you might want to ask your primary physician or family doctor for a personal referral, rather than relying on the internet.  Regardless of how you find the audiologist however,  make sure that they are both certified and licensed by the ASHA, the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association. 

Types of Hearing Aids Explained 

If you’re new to hearing aids, you’re probably not yet familiar with the fact that there are several types of hearing aids to choose from. Each different type of hearing aid device has it’s pros and cons that should be taken into consideration before making a choice.  There are four types of hearing aids that are considered to be the most common and well known types: 

1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids:  Similar to the name of the device itself, these are in fact worn behind the ear and are connected to an earpiece that’s designed to fit inside the ear. These types of hearing aids tend to be what those with severe to profound hearing loss opt for, however it depends on the specific person and what their audiologist suggests. 
2. In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids:  This is another type of hearing aid that’s designed to fit inside the ear, with a custom fit to the ear canal of the individual wearing it.  This type of hearing aid is generally suggested for those with mild to severe hearing loss. 
3. Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aids:  This type of hearing aids are most similar to Behind-the-Ear hearing aids, however the main difference is that the receiver is placed inside the ear canal of the individual. In general, this type of hearing aid is for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. 
4. Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids: Also, as the name suggests, this type of hearing aid is made custom fit to be placed completely inside the ear canal of the individual with hearing loss, and is most commonly used for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. 

Trial & Return Policies of Hearing Aid Brands:

Another important factor to take into consideration before making a purchase is the trial and return policy of the hearing aid device brand. Most of the brands do offer a generous trial period, allowing the individual with hearing loss to test out the device and see first hand if it’s a good match for their specific needs. And if not? Then the brand will allow for the hearing aid to be either returned for a monetary refund, or to be returned and exchanged for a different type of hearing aid offered by the brand. 

Make sure to read the specific policy by the brand, see if returning a product comes free of charge or if it will have an additional fee. Whatever it is,  aim for a policy that is both transparent and fair. 

To Summarize 

Dealing with hearing loss can be heartbreaking, and having to choose the right hearing aid can come as an additional stressor.  Comparison websites such as top-hearingaids.com can be helpful in better understanding the various options available on the market and finding the right one for your specific needs.   Choosing the right device can be life-changing for those with hearing loss, however it’s crucial to keep in mind that an audiologist is needed to determine which is the best hearing aid for you.