Did you know that only around 20% of people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually have one? That’s a lot of people who are going around with an unnecessarily reduced level of hearing that could be significantly improved if they had a hearing device.
Now, you might think it’s surprising that someone would skip the opportunity to improve their hearing, but there’s a good reason why it’s the case: Many people have incorrect information about hearing aids. Most people’s view of these devices is based on outdated data that stems back to the 1980s.
Hearing aids have come a long way over the past couple of decades. In this post, we’ll outline some of the key characteristics of hearing devices, which might just be enough to convince someone that now’s the time to make an appointment with an audiologist and get one fitted for themselves.
They’re Subtle
Thought hearing aids were big and clunky? That used to be true, but it’s not true today. Hearing device technology has improved significantly in recent decades, and today, manufacturers are able to cram in next-level hearing features into a compact, comfortable device. Indeed, some hearing aid styles are so subtle that it’s possible that you’ve had a long conversation with someone who was wearing one, without even realizing it.
They’re High-Tech
You know how the smartphone is essentially a radically improved version of traditional phones? Well, today’s hearing aids are essentially radically improved versions of the hearing aids of yesterday. Take a look at devices from leading brands, such as Phonak, ReSound, or Oticon hearing aids, and you’ll typically find that they possess advanced technology that goes far beyond simply amplifying sound. For example, Oticon devices can feature Bluetooth technology, 4D sensors, and 360-degree sound scene technology that helps create a natural soundscape. This not only increases their functionality, making them highly effective at picking up sounds, but also just more broadly improves the wearer’s overall experience.
They’re For Many Levels of Hearing Loss
One of the reasons why so many people who could benefit from hearing aids do not wear them is that they believe that hearing devices are not designed for their level of hearing loss. In truth, there are hearing aids for people with both mild and severe hearing loss.
Some people believe that they should wait until they have more pronounced hearing loss before they get fitted for a device, but actually, the opposite is true — it’s generally recommended to start wearing a device as soon as possible, since that can help to prevent the hearing loss from worsening and enhance quality of life.
They’re Designed With You in Mind
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that hearing aids are fitted with the individual wearer in mind. A good audiologist will assess your level of hearing loss and take the time to understand your needs/wants before recommending a hearing loss. It’s a personalized experience that can have a profoundly positive long-term impact on your quality of life.
