In the past few years, hearing aid technology has dramatically increased, but with so many different types how do you know which is the best for you? You may have had several friends suggest a brand only to find that a local clinic suggests another brand. You may search on the internet for reviews and ratings, but really not find anything but "sales" informaiton. What are you to do?
With so many different opinions, it's difficult for you to decide what to buy. The best hearing instrument for you is one that is within your budget, helps you hear as well as possible, and is comfortable to wear. Brands and technology don't matter as much as your own preferences. If a hearing aid has the most amazing technology available, but you won't wear it because it looks horrible or you can't stand the way it sounds, that hearing aid is no good for you! If you can't afford it, then it's no good either. A hearing professional will guide you to the hearing device that best meets your hearing needs and fits within your lifestyle.
The best question to ask is WHERE to buy the hearing aid, not necesarily what TYPE of hearing aids. There are 4 types of places where you can buy hearing instruments: Private Practice Hearing Professionals (Audiologists and Hearing Aid Specialists), Online companies such as
AidRight.com, ENT Physicians, and Chain stores like Miracle Ear and Beltone.
Private Practice Hearing Professionals:
1. Usually they are the best trained and most experienced.
2. They generally carry a wide variety of hearing aids from different manufacturers.
3. Prices are more reasonable as a rule.
4. More customer service oriented, you are usually dealing with the owner.
Online companies:
1. These are excellent if they refer you to a professional and their services are included in the price.
2. You will usually get the best price.
3. Do not buy direct online or mail order without professional face to face service. You would be throwing your money out the window.
ENT offices:
1. They are often too busy to provide the necessary time and attention, the audiologists that work there typically don't specialize in hearing aids.
2. They are hard to get in to see on short notice.
3. You can get medical treatment there if needed.
4. Prices tend to be higher in general.
Chain stores:
1. Franchise or chain stores generally only will carry their one brand, so if it doesnt work you dont have any other choices.
2. Only a Chain store can service their hearing aid. Should the franchise store go out of business or move, then you have a hearing aid that no one can service and typically will have to drive a long way!
3. Chain stores hearing aids are all made by major manufacturers and private labeled. If you go directly to the manufacturer you will typically save a lot of money.
4. Chain stores do offer service at any of their locations nationwide.
5. They often use high pressure sales and gimmicks to get you to buy right then.
If you find a good clinic to work with, you will dramatically increase your chances of getting the right hearing aid for you.
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Kelly C. Calkins, Au.D., F-AAA has been a practicing audiologist for over 20 years and hearing is her passion. To look at
hearing aids reviews and ratings or to look at detailed
hearing aid information or find a local hearing aid professional, simply visit her webstie at http://www.adviceonhearingaids.com
