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.
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Living with hearing loss can be a challenge. Modern technology has made significant strides in providing solutions that can greatly improve our hearing abilities. Hearing aids have become an essential tool for millions of individuals worldwide. However, with a wide range of options available in the market, selecting the right hearing aids can be overwhelming. Today, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing hearing aids to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect fit for your hearing related needs.
Degree and Type of Hearing Loss
Before embarking on your hearing aid selection journey, it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of your hearing loss. The degree and type of hearing loss will play a significant role in determining the most suitable hearing aids for you. Different hearing aids are designed to address specific types and levels of hearing loss. Therefore, consulting with an audiologist or hearing care professional to assess your hearing abilities is essential for accurate diagnosis and guidance.
Lifestyle and Personal Preferences
When selecting hearing aids, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and personal preferences. Are you an active individual who enjoys outdoor activities? Do you frequently attend social gatherings or business meetings? Consider your daily routines and the environments in which you spend most of your time. This information will help determine the features and functionalities that would best support your lifestyle, such as noise reduction, connectivity options, or rechargeable batteries.
Hearing Aid Styles
Hearing aids come in various styles, each with its own advantages and considerations. Some common styles include behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and completely-in-the-canal (CIC). BTE hearing aids are versatile and suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, while ITE and CIC styles offer a more discreet appearance. Understanding the pros and cons of each style will help you make an informed decision based on your preferences, hearing needs, and physical considerations, such as dexterity.
Technology and Features
The advancements in hearing aid technology have revolutionized the way we experience sound. When selecting hearing aids, consider the available features and technologies. Digital hearing aids offer superior sound quality, adaptive noise reduction, and directional microphones to enhance speech understanding in various listening environments. Wireless connectivity allows for seamless integration with smartphones, televisions, and other audio devices. Additionally, features like telecoil and tinnitus management may also be worth considering, depending on your specific requirements.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are crucial factors when choosing hearing aids. The hearing aids should fit comfortably in your ears or behind your ears without causing discomfort or irritation. Custom-made hearing aids are molded to fit the contours of your ears, providing a more secure and comfortable fit. Additionally, consider the weight and size of the hearing aids, as well as the ease of adjusting and handling them, especially if you have dexterity challenges.
Budget and Insurance Coverage
Hearing aids can vary significantly in price, so it’s important to set a budget that aligns with your financial capabilities. Insurance coverage for hearing aids varies, so it’s worth exploring your options and checking if your insurance plan provides any coverage. Additionally, consider the long-term costs, including maintenance, batteries, and follow-up appointments. Although price shouldn’t be the sole determining factor, balancing your budget and the desired features will help you make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right hearing aids can have a transformative impact on your life, improving your ability to communicate and reconnect with the world around you. By considering factors that we outlined today, you should be better prepared to make a well-informed decision when choosing your hearing aids.
Remember, consulting with a professional audiologist or hearing care specialist is crucial in determining the best hearing aids for your unique needs. They can provide comprehensive evaluations, expert guidance, and ongoing support to ensure you find the perfect fit that enhances your hearing experience.
Don’t let hearing loss hold you back. Take control of your hearing health and embark on the journey to improved hearing with the right selection of hearing aids. Our team of hearing health professionals is available to assist you with any of your hearing-related needs. Please contact us to schedule your next appointment. Enjoy the sounds of life once again and embrace the opportunities for better communication and connection that lie ahead.