There is often a misconception that hearing aids are like glasses. As soon as you put them on, your hearing will be corrected. However, this is not the case.
Hearing loss is not an easy fix, but with the right tools and support, you can be successful in managing it so that you achieve the best quality hearing possible.
What is the Difference Between Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) and Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids must be “prescribed” and programmed specifically to fit an individual’s hearing loss.
Because hearing loss comes in so many different forms, some people may need more loudness, while others require more clarity, and still others may need background noise reduction.
This is why you must work with an audiologist who can adjust your hearing aid to optimize the signal and meet your needs.
There is also a misconception that personal hearing devices or over-the-counter hearing aids do the same thing as hearing aids you get from an audiologist. They don’t.
Online, you may see personal listening devices marketed as hearing aids, but don’t be fooled. If you’ve ordered something online and it doesn’t require frequency-specific programming from an audiologist, it’s not a hearing aid.
However, as many people know, hearing aids are extremely expensive and are not covered by most insurances.
That being said, if a hearing aid is out of your budget, you may still get some benefit from an personal listening device.
Personal listening devices are simple amplification systems, that make sounds louder across all frequencies.
Nowadays, manufacturers are coming out with some that have the ability for basic programming.
We are here to help you be an informed consumer, so either way you go, it is always a good idea to get your hearing tested and talk with an audiologist so that you know what your areas of need are and what type of personal listening device will help you the most.