{"id":1723,"date":"2021-02-11T18:37:00","date_gmt":"2021-02-11T23:37:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/charlestonhearing.com\/?p=1723"},"modified":"2021-02-11T18:37:00","modified_gmt":"2021-02-11T23:37:00","slug":"6-to-dos-before-buying-your-first-hearing-aid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hearingsc.com\/6-to-dos-before-buying-your-first-hearing-aid\/","title":{"rendered":"6 To-Do\u2019s Before Buying Your First Hearing Aid"},"content":{"rendered":"

On average, people with hearing loss<\/a> wait seven to 10 years to actually seek treatment for the condition. If you\u2019ve been suspecting you have hearing loss and are finally ready to address it and improve your communication, health and quality of life, be sure to do these six things first.<\/p>\n

1. Get a Hearing Test\"A<\/h2>\n

Before you can get fit for a hearing aids, you first need to get a hearing test from a qualified audiologist. Types of hearing tests<\/a> include pure tone testing, speech testing, middle ear tests, auditory brainstem response (ABR) and otoacoustic emissions (OAE).<\/p>\n

2. List Your Hearing Challenges<\/h2>\n

During your hearing evaluation, your audiologist will ask you questions about your lifestyle and how your symptoms affect your ability to do the things you love, like attending a play or concert at the Charleston Stage<\/a>. It\u2019s helpful to prepare a list of areas you\u2019d like to improve in advance.<\/p>\n

3. Figure Out Your Financing Options<\/h2>\n

While hearing aids are designed to treat a medical condition, they are unfortunately not covered by Medicare or most third-party insurance plans. Hearing aids can still be made affordable through the VA, vocational rehabilitation programs, charitable organizations or financing plans.<\/p>\n

4. Develop Realistic Expectations<\/h2>\n

Hearing aids don\u2019t work the way glasses do; they are not able to perfectly restore your hearing to what it once was, and you won\u2019t get the full benefit right away. It\u2019s important to understand that hearing aids simply amplify sounds<\/a> to a level the ear can detect, and it may take some time to get the programming just right to compensate for your unique type and degree of hearing loss.<\/p>\n

5. Rely on Your Support System<\/h2>\n

If your family members were the ones who originally suggested you may have a problem with your hearing, they\u2019ll be right beside you cheering you on through the rehabilitation process. Don\u2019t be afraid to talk to them about your concerns or request accommodations that can help you communicate better.<\/p>\n

6. Find the Right Professional<\/h2>\n

When you buy a hearing aid, you\u2019re not just paying for the device, you\u2019re paying for the care you receive. Wearing hearing aids means spending a lot of time in an audiologist\u2019s office being tested, having your devices reprogrammed and getting repairs done. Be sure you choose a professional you trust.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re tired of missing all the sounds that life has to offer, schedule an appointment with the experts at The Hearing & Balance Center today.<\/p>\n

Learn More About Hearing Aids<\/h2>\n