5 Hearing Aid Myths
Do you know you have hearing loss, but have some reservations about hearing aids based on what you've heard others say? Don't worry, we've got answers to five of the most common concerns.
1. Hearing aids will make everything sound too loud.
The myth that digital hearing aids will make everything sound too loud has been largely debunked. Today’s digital hearing aids are designed with sophisticated sound processing technology that allows them to automatically adjust the sound levels to the wearer's individual needs. This technology ensures that the sound is neither too loud nor too quiet, allowing the wearer to experience the sound at a level that is comfortable for them.
Plus, hearing aid users can customize their sound settings to further adjust the sound to their exact preferences. Therefore, digital hearing aids are capable of providing an optimal sound experience tailored specifically to each individual wearer.
2. Hearing aids will restore my hearing back to normal.
While hearing aids are a great way to enhance hearing and improve the quality of life for many individuals, it’s essential to remember that this technology won’t return your hearing to normal. Their effectiveness depends on various factors, including:
- Severity and type of hearing loss
- A person’s auditory system
- Ability to adapt to amplified sounds
Hearing aids are designed to amplify sounds and make them clearer, but they aren’t meant to compensate for all aspects of hearing loss completely. Nonetheless, they provide significant benefits to those using them and improve their overall well-being.
3. Hearing aids will make me look "older".
Hearing aids are not a sign of aging, and wearing one does not mean a person looks or feels older. In fact, hearing aids can be quite stylish and even discreet, and are designed to be comfortable and easy to use. With recent advances in technology, hearing aids are smaller than ever, and many are nearly invisible when worn. You can even control the volume of your hearing aids, adjust settings, and stream music directly from a smartphone.
Hearing aids can make a huge difference in quality of life, so there is no need to feel embarrassed or self-conscious about wearing them. They should be seen as tools to help you stay active, vibrant, and independent.
4. I only need to wear one hearing aid if my hearing is bad in just one ear.
Although this may be true for some people, wearing only one hearing aid has disadvantages for the majority. Consider the following reasons when deciding whether or not to wear one or two hearing aids:
- You get better sound localization. This means you’ll be able to know where precisely the speaker and sound are coming from.
- You can hear better with background noise. Our brain uses both ears to differentiate target speech and background noise. Also, many hearing aids have functions that reduce background noise automatically.
- You’ll reduce the hearing imbalance. When you crank up the volume of your TV and have both hearing aids on, you’ll avoid a tiresome and potentially damaging listening experience.
5. I can’t afford hearing aids.
Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years, and many of them are now more affordable than ever. There are many different types of hearing aids on the market, ranging from budget-friendly models to higher-end devices. Additionally, participating Beltone locations offer financing, which can help make the cost far more manageable. Our hearing care professionals can discuss your options during a free in-person assessment.
Debunking myths is easy, and so is checking up on your ears! At Beltone, we believe that everyone deserves to live the best life possible. Our team of hearing professionals across the country will give you the care, services and treatment recommendations you need to lead a more fulfilling way of life.