Common Myths and Misunderstanding Surrounding Hearing Aids

There are many clear benefits to wearing a hearing aid. Unfortunately, a lot of people are put off of wearing a hearing aid due to false information they’ve heard or wrongly assumed. Below are just some of the common misconceptions surrounding hearing aids and an explanation as to why they’re not true.

Hearing Aids Are for Severe Hearing Loss Only

Some individuals think they have to severe hearing loss to be considered for a hearing aid. However, this is not the case. Many hearing aids are prescribed to individuals with mild hearing loss. As soon as you notice hearing loss occurring, it is often worth getting a hearing evaluation so that you can be prescribed a hearing aid.

Only Old People Need Hearing Aids

Hearing loss doesn’t just affect people in old age. Some individuals can get hearing loss much earlier due to hereditary conditions, diseases, injuries or progressive wear through poor lifestyle choices. If you start to notice you are having trouble hearing, talk with to an audiologist about scheduling a hearing test, to understand the severity of your hearing loss.

You Can Tell When Someone’s Wearing a Hearing Aid

While hearing aids used to be large and bulky, modern devices come in many different shapes and styles. Some are very small and discreet – such hearing aids are barely noticeable and are ideal if you want a discreet look.

Hearing Aids Are Complicated to Use

Some hearing aids may have more settings than others, but most are easy to adjust once you are used to wearing your hearing aids. The intricate part is adjusting a hearing aid – and this is usually done by an audiologist when you first purchase your hearing aid. An audiologist can also readjust your hearing aid for you, as well as carrying out repairs.

Hearing Aids Just Make Everything Louder

A hearing aid doesn’t just turn up the volume of everything. Instead, hearing aids are adjusted to amplify specific frequencies that you have trouble hearing. They can also have other functions such as reducing background noise to make conversations in buy places easier to follow.

Hearing Aids Are High Maintenance

There is a common misconception that hearing aids are high maintenance, requiring constant attention and care. In reality, modern hearing aids are designed with durability and wearer-friendly features, minimizing the need for extensive upkeep. Routine maintenance typically involves simple tasks like cleaning and changing batteries, which can be easily managed by wearers. Technological advancements have made hearing aids more reliable and resilient, challenging the misconception that they demand frequent and intricate maintenance.

Hearing Aids Are Uncomfortable to Wear

An audiologist will usually be able to help you find a hearing aid that fits snugly in your ear. Occasionally a hearing aid is fitted and it’s’ not the right shape or size. If your hearing aid does not fit comfortably, talk to your audiologist about refitting and making adjustments to your hearing aids, for maximum comfort. Most modern hearing aids are custom fit to the shape of your ear, providing comfort.

Hearing Aids Are Only for Hearing Loss

Hearing aids are not just for hearing loss. Some hearing aids are also prescribed for tinnitus. By amplifying certain frequencies of background noise, these hearing aids can help mask the ringing caused by tinnitus.

A Good Hearing Aid Has Instant Positive Results

You may need to give your ears some time to adjust to wearing a hearing aid. At first, certain sounds may seem too loud or not loud enough. However, you should soon start to notice the positive difference. If you need to make adjustments, contact your audiologist.

Hearing Aids Return Hearing to Normal

A very common misconception with hearing aids is that they return hearing to normal. However, hearing aids do not restore your hearing they amplify sounds you could not hear before. There are hearing aids that will make noises sound more natural as they sit deeper in the ear canal.

Is it Time to Get a Hearing Aid?

To determine whether you need a hearing aid, you will need to undergo a hearing evaluation. This is carried out by an audiologist. Once they have the results of your evaluation they can then prescribe you a hearing aid based on the results.

Not sure where to go to get a hearing evaluation? Dr Eimer’s Hearing Clinic could be the perfect choice. Our highly qualified team can assess your hearing in detail and then show you through the range of different hearing aids available. We will also show you how to use them and how to look after them. You can schedule an evaluation and can call us today at 231-333-5118.