The technology for hearing aids has helped improve the quality of life for many people, and it keeps getting better and more sophisticated. However, some people are unsure about the benefits of hearing aids because of popular misconceptions that sound believable. In this guide, we are here to set the record straight, so you’ll feel more confident about approaching a hearing aid specialist. Here are the most common hearing aid myths you need to know more about.
Hearing Aids Are for Older People
According to Nidcd.nih.gov, about 28.8 million adults in the U.S. could benefit in some way by using hearing aids. However, that doesn’t mean that hearing loss only affects older people. The truth is that hearing loss can affect anyone at any age and negatively impacts communication.
So, even if you feel like you’re still too young to be experiencing hearing loss, you shouldn’t ignore the signs that indicate otherwise. For instance, if you’re continually asking others to repeat themselves or failing to respond appropriately because you’re mishearing, you should consider seeking advice from a hearing aid specialist.
Don’t worry too much about your age. Seeking treatment is what’s important, regardless of age. That way, you can participate in conversations and improve your communication, which boosts your quality of life.
Wearing One Hearing Aid Will Solve the Issue
It’s true that you can still hear better with one hearing aid, but it’s not enough. There’s a reason why we need both ears to function well. For instance, wearing two hearing aids enables you to localize sounds to pinpoint speech directed at you in a noisy environment. Wearing two hearing aids strengthens connections in the brain associated with language, learning, and communication.
This is because you’re receiving input from both ears and integrating the sounds you hear in the brain. So, if you’re considering wearing one hearing aid because the cost of two is too expensive, keep in mind that it’s actually better to have two affordable hearing aids than one premium hearing aid.
Hearing Aids Make You Appear Older or Unattractive
When you first picture hearing aids, you undoubtedly imagine the conspicuous hearing instruments that were used in the past. Today, with technological advancements, modern hearing aid design now factor in function as well as cosmetic appeal.
These hearing aids are so small they are almost invisible, so they won’t affect your appearance. There are several options you can choose from, such as those that fit completely in the canal (CIC), invisible in the canal (IIC), and mini behind the ear (BTE).
In any case, as mentioned, hearing loss should never be associated with getting old because it affects people of all ages.
My Hearing Loss Doesn’t Need to Be Treated
Sometimes it’s difficult to notice how even mild hearing loss can be a handicap. But once you get hearing aids fitted, you’ll be surprised at how the quality of life can improve. Hearing loss can cause you to turn up the volume too loud or miss out on important conversations. That alone suggests that hearing aids can help.
Other times you can delay treatment because you think you can still manage to get by. However, you’re essentially teaching yourself to strain when actively listening, and this can lead to long-term problems, such as unhealthy brain function and social isolation.
Hearing Aids Will Cure My Hearing Loss
Hearing aids will not restore your hearing to normal, but what they do is improve your hearing and listening capacity. But even though your hearing loss won’t be cured, you can still communicate effectively and improve the quality of your life.
Keep in mind that hearing aid technologies vary, so it’s normal for people who wear hearing aids to have different experiences. The better the technology, the more you can maximize your aided hearing. For instance, some hearing aids come with noise reduction and variable programming to serve a variety of listening needs.
Hearing Aids Cost Too Much
Hearing aids can require an investment of several thousand dollars, especially if you’re eyeing premium hearing aids with top-notch features. However, the good news is you can still find excellent options suitable for any reasonable budget.
That means you can still get value from your purchase and improve your listening experience without breaking the bank. If you need help, you can always explore available programs that offer financial assistance to hearing aid wearers or look into financing options.
We are happy to have debunked these hearing aid myths for you. If you need more information about any topic related to hearing aids or think you might benefit from hearing aids get in touch.
Call Ear Specialists of Omaha & Bellevue at (402) 933-3277 for more information or to schedule an appointment.