Every hearing loss patient’s situation is unique, and there’s a hearing aid for practically any situation. Someone who prefers quieter activities like reading, drawing or gardening will likely need different technology than someone who enjoys spending time in large groups and louder scenarios. No matter what you spend your days doing, there’s a hearing aid out there that will best serve your needs.
How Hearing Aids Work
All hearing aids consist of the following components:
- A microphone to detect sound
- An amplifier to make the sound louder
- A speaker to deliver the sound into the ear
- Disposable or rechargeable batteries to power the hearing aids
A microphone picks up the sound (acoustic energy) and converts it into an electrical signal. The amplifier amplifies this electrical signal before transmitting it to the receiver. The receiver gathers electrical signals from the amplifier, and converts them back into acoustic energy and delivers the amplified sound to the ear.
The Hearing Aid Evaluation and Fitting Process
The hearing aid evaluation is an appointment with one of our licensed hearing care professionals who specializes in hearing aids. The appointment is free of charge, and you are under no obligation to purchase a hearing aid. You are encouraged to bring a family member to this hour-long appointment.
We will evaluate your hearing needs, audiogram results, lifestyle, activities, manual dexterity, situations in which you have difficulty hearing and your cosmetic concerns. These factors are considered alongside medical information, such as the shape and health of your ear canal, to make the best recommendations regarding the technology and style of your hearing device. You will have the opportunity to learn about the various hearing aids and assistive listening devices that may benefit you, and all your questions will be answered.
Recommendations for hearing aids and price ranges will be reviewed. We will review several options for you to consider. Once you decide on the hearing aid style, we will make a custom-fit earmold if needed.
Hearing aids take approximately two weeks to arrive, at which point you can schedule your first fitting appointment. It generally takes one to three appointments to fine-tune your hearing aids and make any necessary adjustments as you get used to hearing the world again. You have a 45-day trial period to decide whether to keep your hearing aids or find a different option.
You will likely be amazed at what you’ve been missing! The world is full of sounds. Whether you want to hear live music or the laughter of your family, we’re here to help you engage with them all.
Call Ear Associates & Rehabilitation Services for more information or to schedule an appointment.