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Hearing aids FAQs
What are the different styles of hearing aids?
In general, there are 4 basic styles of hearing aids... Behind the Ear (BTE), In the Ear (ITE), In the Canal (ITC), Completely in the Canal (CIC). There are variations on the four basic styles. Your hearing healthcare professional (audiologist or hearing instrument dispenser) will work with you to help you decide on the best style for you, based on your needs and desires.
How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing aid prices vary, depending on many factors. Factors that influence price include...one versus two hearing aids, aural rehabilitation programs, warranty, services included, accessories, circuit sophistication, telephone coils, directional microphones, insurance coverage and other factors too! Please see your hearing healthcare professional (audiologist or hearing instrument dispenser) for an exact price based on your needs and desires.
What can I expect from my hearing aids?
You can expect that after you have adapted and learned to use them properly (usually 4 to 8 weeks), many "speech sound" benefits from hearing aids will become available to you. You can expect your ability to perceive speech correctly will be enhanced. You can expect most conversations will be much easier with the hearing aids. You can expect more relaxed hearing, more confidence and more satisfaction from your conversations. Additionally, you can expect to hear warning sounds more readily with the hearing aids, than without!
Do all hearing aids work the same way?
No. Hearing aids work in many different ways to provide the needed and desired speech signals to the listener.
Some hearing aids deliver sound through the air, some deliver sound through bone conduction. Some hearing aids use FM signals, some use electro-magnetic signals (T-coils). Most hearing aids use digital technology, although some still use analog technology...some hearing aids use noise reduction technology, others don't! In brief, there are dozens of varieties and alternatives in the way hearing aids work!
How often do I need to change the batteries in my hearing aids?
Batteries should be changed about every ten to 14 days. The exact schedule for changing batteries depends on the amount of time the hearing aids are worn and the power consumed over time. Most new digital hearing aids have battery warning indicators. Before the battery goes out, the hearing aid will "beep, beep, beep" to tell you you have another hour or two before the battery fails. Using excellent, fresh batteries is important, and changing batteries should take no more than 60 seconds.