Things To Consider When Getting A New Hearing Aid
If you're starting to have trouble with your hearing, you should consider getting tested for a hearing aid. Hearing aids come in several different styles and offer various features that can match your lifestyle. Here are some thing to consider when choosing the best device for you.
Level Of Activity
If you play a lot of sports or exercise daily and sweat a lot, then you need a durable hearing aid. One of the big problems with hearing aids is they are vulnerable to moisture that comes from sweating, showering, or rain. The way to avoid this problem, and still be able to hear properly, is to choose a heavy duty hearing aid made for an active lifestyle. These are typically coated in a thin layer of flexible, waterproof material. The material provides cushioning that absorbs shock impact if the hearing aid is dropped or banged up while playing sports. The coating also repels moisture, so sweat beads up and rolls off rather than seeping in and damaging the hearing aid. The appearance of the device is not affected, and you can choose a discreet model that is hidden by your ear.
Manual Dexterity
Hearing aids are tiny devices with tiny batteries. If you have trouble manipulating your hands and fingers, you'll need to shop around and find a hearing aid that is easy for you to adjust and care for. Some devices are adjusted manually while it is on your ear. This can be difficult if you can't move your fingers very well. In that case, you may want to go with a hearing aid that is adjusted by remote control. You could also opt for a sophisticated model with a directional microphone and other features that adjust automatically based on the environment you're in.
Familiarity With Technology
Digital technology has greatly improved how hearing aids work. However, if you're the type of person who has a hard time keeping up with technology, and you don't want to learn, you may want to stick with a simple, manual hearing aid. If you're familiar with smartphones, Bluetooth, and wireless technology, then a state-of-the-art digital hearing aid would be an excellent match. This technology accepts audio input from devices, such as a TV, MP3 player, and computer. You can even control the hearing aid remotely with an app on your smartphone. This allows you to tweak your listening experience for hearing that might even be better than normal.
Concern With Appearance
Once you've worn a hearing aid and enjoyed how it improves your life, you may not be so concerned with appearance. If it's your first hearing aid, then you may be worried about how it will make you look. You may not want anyone to know you need a hearing aid, and for that reason, you put off getting one. If that sounds like you, then you should consider a hearing aid that is worn inside the ear. The entire device slips inside your ear canal so it is invisible. When you have your hearing test to determine the type and degree of your hearing loss, the audiologist will help you decide if one of these devices is right for you, or if you'd get better results with a device that fits behind your ear.
No matter what type of hearing aid you choose, your life will be improved with the right hearing aid. For more information, talk to a professional like Pacific Hearing Care.