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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you mail a hearing aid directly to me?

Mail-order hearing instruments are illegal in several states to protect the consumer. Hearing instruments are custom-made to fit your ear specifically. Only a hearing healthcare professional can determine a proper hearing instrument fitting. In addition, computers are used to program the hearing instrument to an individual's particular loss. Your professional has been trained to program these instruments based upon your hearing loss and concerns. Professionals also take measurements of the amount of benefit, or amplification, the hearing aid is giving you. Professional care is essential in ensuring that you derive maximum benefit from your investment in hearing aids.

Will wearing a hearing aid restore my hearing to normal?

Unfortunately, NO it will not. Hearing aids are exactly as the name implies ‚Äî aids. They will not restore your hearing to normal, but they will make most sounds available to you at your hearing level . Research shows that a large majority of treatable hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids. Most people find significant benefit and enhancements to quality of life after purchasing hearing aids.

Do I need two hearing instruments?

If you have a hearing loss in both ears it is recommended that you wear a hearing instrument in each ear. You can hear better out of two good ears rather than one.
Better Hearing with Both Ears

  • With equal inputs coming from both sides to the brain, it is easier to understand conversation.
  • With good hearing in both ears, it is easier to determine the direction, or source, of sound.
  • When you hear well out of two ears, it boosts the loudness of the signal.
  • Two good ears hear better in noise than one.

Is there a hearing aid that can eliminate background noise?

No hearing instrument can completely eliminate background noise. Most of the time, background noise is speech, which is the exact same signal that the hearing aid is trying to amplify. Some hearing instruments can lessen the effects of a non-speech noise while some hearing instruments can boost the sounds in front of you while decreasing those behind you. This second method works well when you are facing the speaker you want to hear and when you have your back to noise you do not want to hear. This effect is referred to as directionality.

What is the "best" hearing instrument on the market?

There is not one "best" hearing instrument on the market. A hearing instrument that works well for one individual may not produce the same results for someone else since everyone has different listening needs. Each major manufacturer makes a product that is highly comparable to other manufacturer's products. The "best" hearing instrument for you is one that your hearing professional believes can best meet your needs, and offers you a good warranty and service.

Are digital hearing instruments for everyone?

They are for almost everyone. Today's digital hearing instruments provide both clarity and amplification. Someone with a severe to profound hearing loss, who is used to conventional technology, may now be a candidate for digital circuitry. Ask you local SecondSense hearing healthcare professional for more information about digital hearing aids.

How do I know what size hearing aid I need?

Hearing aids come in all sizes. Selection of a size depends upon your personal preference, your ear canal size, and your hearing loss. The smallest size is a Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) and fits deep into your ear canal. It is removed by pulling a string. The next size is an In-the-Canal (ITC), which fits into your canal and is usually only visible from the side. An In-the-Ear (ITE) fills your entire ear and a Behind-the-Ear (BTE), hooks on to the top of your ear and goes behind it. Today, many people find that Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) hearing aids best meet their hearing and cosmetic needs because they are very small and discreet. Even if the smallest CIC is not appropriate for you, keep in mind that hearing aids are less noticeable than hearing loss.

My friend did not have a positive experience with hearing aids. Will the same thing happen to me?

Everyone's hearing loss is unique. Although someone you know may have had a negative experience with hearing instruments, you may not have the same experience. Professionals' ability to fit hearing instruments vary, as do hearing aids and technology. Do not base your hearing upon someone else's experiences. Today‚Äôs hearing instrument technology is significantly better than hearing aids purchased even as recently as two years ago.

Do hearing instruments need repair?

Yes, occasionally hearing instruments need repair. Hearing aids are exposed to a damp, waxy environment on a daily basis. Because of this, and normal wear and tear, you can expect to face a repair or two during the life span of your hearing instrument. If your hearing instrument is being repaired more than you are able to use it, then it may be time to consider new instruments.

How long does it take to adjust to new hearing instruments?

You should notice results within minutes, but it may take several months to completely realize the benefits of your new hearing instruments. Hearing tends to deteriorate gradually over time, so when sounds are reintroduced to the brain in a 30-minute fitting session, it can be overwhelming. The brain may have to relearn the classification of some sounds. Even though it may take several months to completely adjust to hearing through hearing aids, you should notice benefits in a very short time.

Whose responsibility is rehabilitation?

Successful rehabilitation depends upon you, your hearing professional, and your support group. It is very important that you communicate openly with your hearing professional and that you understand realistic expectations of hearing instruments. It is also necessary for your professional to guide you in your expectations while making adjustments based upon your needs. Also, it is very important to receive support from your friends and family members. Discuss your experience with them and explain your need for their encouragement and understanding. Hearing aids do not always give immediate results. They may require technical adjustments by the professional along with determination and patience on your part.','Frequently Asked Questions

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