“What questions should I ask before buying hearing aids?”
1. How long have you been in business?
You want to be sure that the place where you purchase your hearing aids is well established and will be around for many years to help you.
2. What is your level of education?
A licensed audiologist is required to have a doctoral or master level degree in the hearing and balance sciences. They look not only at your hearing loss but are also trained to detect medical issues and make referrals when necessary. A hearing aid dispenser is only required to have a high school diploma and complete an apprenticeship in hearing aid dispensing.
3. What brands of hearing aids do you fit?
There are many makers of hearing aids. Ensure that you are getting
the most appropriate device for your hearing loss and lifestyle by
working with an audiologist who chooses products from a variety of
manufacturers.
4. Which style of hearing aid are you recommending and why?
There are many hearing aid styles, and not all are appropriate for
all types of loss. You need to be sure that you are being fit with a device style that will provide adequate amplification for your loss now and for the next few years.
5. What services are included in the price of the hearing aids?
Prices vary. Some offices bundle their services into the price of the
aids. Others offer services for a limited period of time only. Be sure
you know what your package will include and exclude.
6. Are batteries provided and if so, for how long?
Batteries cost about $1.00 each and last for about a week of use.
With two hearing aids worn daily, your yearly cost averages $110.00. Over the lifespan of an aid — around 5 years — total
costs average $550.00.
7. What method do you use to test appropriate amplification?
Real ear measurements place a tiny tube attached to a microphone
in your ear to ensure that the volume from your hearing aids is adequate. It is the best method to make sure that your hearing
aids will help and not harm you. Some offices do not use any
procedures to verify an appropriate fitting.
8. Most importantly, ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the personnel at this office.
Obtaining hearing aids is not a one stop process. Over the years, you will have many contacts with the office and fitting personnel.
You should feel confident that they know how to best address your hearing needs, and you should feel that you are treated with respect and dignity. Please remember, a hearing aid is only as good as the
person fitting it.