Easy to Use Hearing Aids
Some people find hearing aids simple and easy to use right from the beginning. Others might find them complicated and need more support. Here are some considerations about ease of use.
Style and Dexterity
Custom style hearing aids include in-the-ear, in-the-canal, and completely-in-the canal hearing aids. A custom hearing aid is one solid piece that is molded to fit inside your ear. In contrast, a behind-the ear or receiver-in-the-canal hearing aid sits on top of your ear with tubing or wire that feeds the sound into your ear canal. Most people find custom hearing aids are easier to insert than receiver-in-canal or behind-the-ear hearing aids. If your hands are shaky or numb, you’ll definitely want to consider what style will be easiest for you to use.
In the ear hearing aids are one of the easiest styles to insert
Rechargeable Aids, Vision, and Dexterity
To take care of hearing aids, you need to be able to see them. If you have any trouble with your vision or dexterity, choosing a hearing aid with less parts that need to be replaced will be beneficial to you. For instance, a custom hearing aid or a receiver-in-canal hearing with custom tips will generally only have waxguards to change instead of waxguards and domes.
Rechargeable hearing aids can be helpful if you have trouble replacing small cell batteries
Another replaceable part is batteries. Some hearing aid batteries get replaced every week, while others need replacement every few days. Smaller hearing aids tend to have smaller batteries that will need to be replaced more frequently. In contrast, rechargeable hearing aids remove the issue of replacing batteries entirely. Most people find charging hearing aids every night is easier and more convenient than replacing small batteries.
Volume and Program Control
The push buttons for volume and program control on hearing aids are very small. They can be difficult to feel and press, especially if you have any numbness in your fingers. The more automatic your hearing aid, the less likely you need to change volume and programs. If you want to have control over volume and program settings, either a remote or a compatible smartphone can improve accessibility of these functions.
There are many factors to consider when it comes to ease of use. Choosing a clinic that will take the time to consider your needs from the beginning is important. It also helps to have support from clinical staff and family over time if you struggle with taking care of your hearing aids.
Contact us if you’re interested in discussing options for new hearing aids.
