5 Questions You May Have About Hearing Aids

Hearing aids can be a life changer for adults or children who have problems hearing clearly. They can improve hearing, help you understand speech better, and even protect against further hearing loss. But hearing aids may be a new concept for some people, so it's understandable to have questions about them. Here are five common questions people have when considering hearing aids:

1) What do hearing aids do?

Hearing aids amplify sound so that people with hearing loss can hear more clearly. When someone speaks to you or you turn on a TV or radio, the hearing aid takes the sound and makes it louder, making it easier to distinguish words and understand conversations.

2) What types of hearing aids are available?

There are several types of hearing aids, including in-the-ear hearing aids that fit inside your ear canal and behind-the-ear hearing aids that sit behind the outer part of your ear and have a thin tube that goes into the entry of your ear canal. There are also hearing aids with Bluetooth technology, which lets you connect to phones and other devices like hearing loops.

3) How do you clean hearing aids?

It's important to keep hearing aids clean in order for them to work properly. You should brush off any visible dirt or debris and use a soft, dry cloth to remove any moisture each day. If your hearing aid has tubes or domes, you should replace them regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. The medical provider who installs your hearing aids may also offer specific cleaning instructions.

4) Can you swim with a hearing aid?

When you first get your hearing aid, you may be worried about how water will affect it. While hearing aids are often water-resistant devices, they're not always waterproof. If you do not have waterproof equipment, then you should avoid swimming with hearing aids in place. There are specialized hearing aids that are designed to be worn while swimming, but these shouldn't be used without authorization from an audiologist or hearing care professional.

5) Are hearing aids covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your situation and insurance provider. Private insurance plans may cover hearing aids for adults and children, but you should check with your insurer to find out what's available. Many medical providers also offer payment plans or other financing options to help patients cover the cost of hearing aids.

Hearing aids can be a wonderful addition to your hearing care routine, giving you the chance to hear more clearly and participate in everyday conversations. If you have any additional questions about hearing aids or hearing loss, make sure to talk to a hearing care professional.