Being diagnosed with hearing loss can seem daunting and overwhelming. There is a lot of information out there, but we are here to make that process easier for you. Here are some things to consider when choosing amplification.
- Choosing the right professional. Choosing a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) is an important first step in your journey. They are the best qualified to diagnose your hearing loss and providing you the help you need. Audiologists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and non-medically treat hearing loss. When calling a business regarding hearing and hearing loss, make sure you will be seeing a Doctor of Audiology such as Dr. Marie Vetter. The expert you will work with is much like choosing your primary care physician. It will be an ongoing long-standing relationship. Be wary of those offering “free hearing tests” as they are dispensaries that make their cost up in the final price of the hearing aid.
- An expert is vital in the process. In the age of the internet, many people turn first to the Internet for research and information. Yes, hearing aids can be purchased online.
However, it is missing one important component, which is the expert of hearing and hearing care. Just like you can choose to have your taxes done online or professionally done by an accountant, hearing aids work the same way. An audiologist knows about hearing and hearing loss and how best to adjust the hearing devices for each unique patient. This ensures the patient can communicate at their best. A process called “real ear measurement” is the only way you can know if your hearing aids are set appropriately for your hearing loss. Choosing an expert that listens to your needs will be the important puzzle piece to ensure you are hearing optimally.
- The service provided. Choosing the proper amplification is just one component in receiving hearing help. Hearing aids need adjustments and personalization. Once you have utilized amplification for some time, fine tuning adjustments or repairs will also have to be made. The service provided by the office will play a vital role in that ongoing process. Here at Chicago Hearing Services, we have different service plans to best meet all of our patient’s needs. Some additional things to consider include what their office hours are, do they provide loaners when your hearing aids go for repair, and can they see you within a short amount of time.
- Your lifestyle does matter. Your hearing is important—it allows you to experience your life! Because of this, choosing a hearing aid that is right for your lifestyle, not only your hearing loss is important. A trustworthy professional will work with you to recommend and provide you the best hearing devices for your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget.
- Technology is important. The technology of the computer chip is important when choosing a hearing device. Better computer chips do much better in complex noise environments such as church, restaurants, and meetings. All major hearing aid brands have hearing devices that are able to do this. The audiologist will work with you to choose what brand and technology level is most appropriate. However, one thing to be careful of is the branding limitations that may accompany hearing aids. Some companies may “lock” their hearing aids in which, you, the patient is unable to go elsewhere for adjustments. This can become a headache if the business closes, you move or are traveling, or you are dissatisfied with the care provided. When making a decision, choose an office that works with several manufacturers and is able to make adjustments as well.
Our goal at Chicago Hearing Services is to have you hearing at your best. We want to help amplify your hearing, so that you may experience YOUR life! For questions or to book an appointment, call us at (773) 685-9202 or click here.
