Hearing Aid Information

Q.  How much do hearing aids cost? 

A.  There are many different makes and models of hearing aids out there in every tier of technology.  Our practice, unless requested otherwise, only work with digital aids, with the exception of budget aids.  The cost of digital aids range from "entry" to "premium" ; this range of levels is much like cars.  You cannot expect the same level of comfort and performance from a compact budget car as you would a higher end luxury car.  It is what is inside that counts and it is what is inside that drives the cost.  Although the levels of technology have nothing to do with physical comfort, it has a vast difference when it comes to performance.  The more you expect an electronic device to function like the human ear, the more expensive sophisticated technology is required.  Your hearing loss, specific listening difficulties, communication needs, expectations and budget are all taken into consideration when you are counseled on what is "best".  Remember, no hearing aid is "bad", they all function (just like a car drives) but the success of and hearing aid fitting depends on a multitude of factors, the individual's hearing loss, lifestyles, needs and expectations. 

When shopping for hearing aids be sure to compare "apples to apples", just as you would any other major purchase.  It is also important that you look at the complete package, not only the devices.

Our Buying Group Matches or Exceeds the price given to you from another office on the exact same instrument.  There are discounts available for cash or check.

Q.  Which technology is best for me?

A.  Some hearing aids are designed to perform better in complex environments than others.  The technology that enables a hearing aid to sort through extraneous noises and enhance speech is what ultimately determines the cost difference between hearing aid technologies. 

Q.  Do all hearing aids work the same?

A.  No.  Hearing aids work in many different ways to provide the needed and desired speech signals of the listener.  The hearing aid's performance is different in each of the tiers of technology and the individual's hearing loss and the integrity of the neural system affect how the instruments work.  This is why it is important to talk with your Audiologist about your specific needs and where you and your family struggle the most.  Communication, between yourself, your Audiologist and family is very important in this decision making process. 

Q.  How long do hearing aids last?

A.  If properly taken care of, they should last between 5 to 8 years, often longer.  In most circumstances, patients usually change, not because their aids are worn out, but because they want the newer technology, or their hearing loss has dropped outside the limits for what their aids can provide.  Today's aids are lasting longer than aids of the past with proper care. 

The most common repairs required by hearing aids are based on dirt and debris blocking the microphones and receivers.  Like oils changes in cars, aids need regular maintenance.  Many repairs are due to poor or low maintenance.  It is very important that you follow regular cleaning and performance measurements recommended by your Audiologist for optimal function of your instruments.  Protect your investment.

Note:

This information was provided for general knowledge, as each hearing impaired individual has a different loss, different needs, and different expectations.  Knowledge is power.  Talk to you Audiologist about your specific needs.