Many people who could benefit from hearing aids are discouraged from trying them by a number of misconceptions. Here are a few common misunderstandings about hearing devices, and why you shouldn’t be scared to take the plunge with these invaluable tools.

Misconception: Only older people need to wear hearing aids.

The stigma of hearing loss being a sign of old age is quickly fading into the past. The fact is that many young people, from children to teens to people in their 20’s and 30’s have a hearing loss that is serious enough to require a hearing aid. Age-related hearing loss may still be the most common variety, but noise-induced hearing loss is becoming increasingly prevalent due to occupational noise, loud leisure-time activities, and personal music devices. Hearing aid companies now design hearing devices with younger people in mind, and there are numerous smart, sleek, high-tech options to choose from, for people of any age.

2) My friend didn’t like wearing aids, so I won’t either.

Just as every hearing loss is different, everyone will have a different experience of wearing hearing aids. Don’t be discouraged from giving hearing aids a try because someone you know didn’t seem to have success with them. Also, keep in mind that there is an adjustment period to wearing hearing aids, and many people see an improvement in their quality of life after getting used to their devices. Modern hearing aids can be customized your exact listening needs, further increasing your comfort.

3) Hearing aids are large and noticeable.

Although this is true of the hearing aids of the past, many of the devices on the market today are small and discreet, and come in a range of models. Even the more conventional behind-the-ear styles are less noticeable than they were in the past. If you are really interested in an under-the-radar hearing aid, a tiny in-the-ear device could be just right for you. But with more and more celebrities wearing their hearing aids proudly, it may not be as necessary to hide your hearing loss as you think. Furthermore, because hearing loss is the third most common medical condition in the United States, people are breaking down the taboo surrounding it.

4) I’ll probably only need one hearing device.

With most cases of hearing loss, regardless of whether it be because of aging, noise-related damage or a blend of the two, regularly happens in both ears. You may have hearing loss that is more severe in one ear than the other, yet just as with glasses, it is typically necessary to treat the loss on both sides. The brain hears best when it gets signals from both ears, so being fitted with binaural listening devices that help your ears to cooperate is usually the best approach.At your consultation and hearing test, your hearing care specialist can analyze the level of your listening ability in both ears and work with you to select the hearing aids that will be the most helpful.In the case of unilateral hearing loss (in which hearing loss occurs only in one ear), there are devices that are specially designed to accommodate hearing with the “good ear.” Sounds are picked up, analyzed, and balanced, providing a fuller picture of sound that recreates binaural hearing.

5) Buying hearing aids online is a good idea.

In spite of the fact that there may appear to be many inexpensive hearing aid solutions online, purchasing hearing devices on the internet without the advice of a hearing specialist or audiologist could end up costing you more in the long run. There is more to choosing the right hearing aids than simply giving yourself a self-test and clicking “buy now” on the web: the gadgets should be appropriately fitted to your ears to make sure the amplification is the most effective that it can be. Your hearing instrument specialist also needs to thoroughly evaluate your level of hearing loss and help you to choose the correct devices for your listening needs and lifestyle, as well as double-check the devices are functioning properly once you have them in your ears. Where your hearing is concerned, think twice about Amazon, and don't skip a personalized hearing test and fitting.

Visit us at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids

The chance to enhance your listening ability, and your life, is only a few steps away. If you think you may be experiencing hearing loss, don't be frightened off from trying hearing aids by any misconceptions. Call us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids to schedule your personal consultation today.