Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
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Hearing aids are a great tool for treating hearing loss. Unfortunately, they’re surrounded by misconceptions and myths that often stop people from seeking the help they need. It’s high time to dispel these myths and look at the truth about hearing aids.
Myth 1: Hearing Aids Are Only for the Elderly
The Truth: Hearing loss does not discriminate by age. It can affect individuals at any stage of life, from newborns to seniors. The misconception that hearing aids are exclusively for older adults can prevent younger individuals from acknowledging their hearing loss and seeking necessary treatment. Today’s hearing aids are designed for all ages, with various styles and technologies catering to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.
Myth 2: Wearing Hearing Aids Is Embarrassing
The Truth: This myth stems from outdated perceptions and old designs of hearing aids, which were more bulky. Modern hearing aids are marvels of technology—small, sleek, and often nearly invisible. Many models fit discreetly inside the ear canal, while others are styled to look like wireless earbuds.
Myth 3: Hearing Aids Restore Hearing to Normal
The Truth: While hearing aids significantly improve hearing and understanding, they do not “cure” hearing loss or restore hearing to normal. Think of them as sophisticated amplifiers that can be adjusted to optimize hearing in various environments. Users often experience a remarkable improvement in communication, but it’s important to have realistic expectations and work closely with your hearing health professional for the best possible results.
Myth 4: Hearing Aids Are Uncomfortable and Cumbersome
The Truth: This may have been true for older models, but today’s hearing aids bear little resemblance to their predecessors. Advances in design and materials mean that hearing aids are now more comfortable than ever, with options for custom-fits that perfectly contour to your ear. Many users report forgetting they’re even wearing them after a short period of adjustment.
Myth 5: You Only Need One Hearing Aid
The Truth: If you have hearing loss, you’ll typically need two hearing aids for balanced hearing. Using only one hearing aid can strain the ear it amplifies, leading to unbalanced hearing and difficulty locating where sounds are coming from. Binaural hearing aids (for both ears) provide a more natural listening experience, improving the ability to hear and interpret sounds accurately.
Myth 6: Hearing Aids Are Prohibitively Expensive
The Truth: Hearing aids can be an investment, but considering the profound impact they have on quality of life, they are well worth the cost. Options and pricing vary widely to accommodate different needs and budgets. Financing plans, insurance coverage, and programs offering assistance can also help mitigate the expense. Importantly, the value of connecting with loved ones, enjoying social interactions, and engaging fully in life far exceeds the price tag.
Myth 7: All Hearing Aids Are the Same
The Truth: Hearing aids are incredibly diverse in both form and function. From behind-the-ear (BTE) models to completely-in-canal (CIC) devices, there’s a wide range of styles to suit different preferences and hearing needs. Moreover, technological advancements have introduced features such as directional microphones, wireless connectivity, and waterproof materials.
Myth 8: You Can Adjust to Hearing Aids Immediately
The Truth: Adjusting to hearing aids usually takes time. At first, sounds may seem too loud, or you might be distracted by background noise. This is a normal part of the process as your brain re-learns to process sounds it may not have heard for years. With patience and regular use, most users find their hearing aids become indispensable, significantly enhancing their ability to communicate and interact with the world around them.
Myth 9: Hearing Tests and Hearing Aids Are Unnecessary for Mild Hearing Loss
The Truth: Even mild hearing loss can impact your ability to communicate effectively and enjoy life to the fullest. Early intervention is key to improving your overall quality of life. We’ll help you assess your hearing and recommend steps to take.
Book Your Next Hearing Test
Hearing aids have the power to transform lives, yet myths and misconceptions can stand in the way of individuals seeking the help they need. Don’t let these myths hold you back! Book a hearing test to learn more about your hearing loss and explore your hearing aid options.