Statistics revealed that more than 6 million Americans are wearing hearing aids but there are 20 million more who should also wear one. According to the latest survey conducted by the World Health organization (WHO), there has been 10% increase in the number of people with hearing problems in the United States alone. The need for a hearing aid from a reliable hearing aid professional is essential. Before you decide to do business with one, there are important questions to ask your hearing aid professional.

Question 1 : Are you an audiologist?

An audiologist is a hearing aid professional who has undergone all the training and possesses all the certificates required for the practice. He is, therefore, the most qualified professional to fit your hearing aid.

Question 2 : What procedures are followed before a hearing aid is fitted?

The hearing aid professional will conduct an evaluation to examine the type of hearing defect that you have. Once it is established, he will recommend the right hearing aid for you.

Question 3 : What types of hearing aids are available?

There are two types you can choose from:

Select circuit includes - conventional, programmable and digital.

Select size includes - BTE, ITE, ITE half-shell, ITC and CIC

Question 4 : How do I choose what is right for me?

You can request your hearing aid professional to make recommendations and advice in choosing what is the best for your hearing loss and style. No hearing aid is better than the other; they are all good according to their uses. Selecting one considers these factors: particular hearing loss, ear anatomy, manual dexterity, lifestyle needs, cosmetic preference, hearing functionality and cost.

Question 5 : How much does a hearing aid cost?

Cost will include both professional service and hearing device or only for the hearing aid. Before ordering, clarify with the hearing aid professional which type of service you want. Hearing aid and professional service fees range from $700 to $4,700. The professional fee alone cost around $1,000. There are websites showing wholesale prices for hearing devices.

Question 6 : Do I need one or two hearing aids?

Your hearing aid professional recommends using 2 hearing devices if both ears are impaired, called binaural fitting. These two devices will improve hearing in noise, localize sounds, improve clarity and sound quality. There will be more satisfaction using two hearing devices.

Question 7 : Is there a trial period available?

A trial period given from 30 - 60 days is given after which the device can be returned with a refund. During the time, the hearing aid professional makes the necessary adjustments to provide wearer the optimal effect of the device. There is usually a 10% fitting fee which is not refunded.

Question 8 : Is financial assistance available?

In many countries today, the government offers financial assistance to those who want to be fitted with hearing aids. This will cover both professional service and the device. You can ask your hearing aid professional for more details.

Hearing aids will make deaf people recover their loss of self esteem when they had hearing impairment. It gives them the chance to enjoy the gift of hearing which is bestowed to all individuals. Just choose the right hearing aid professional after he answers your questions satisfactorily.