Myths and Facts About Hearing Aids from Penticton, BC Audiologists

Penticton, BC audiologists want you to know that there are many modern hearing aids for treatment of hearing loss on the market today. If you are old enough to remember the vision of an elderly person with a big horn placed against their ear, you may think that today’s hearing aids are little better than that primitive, old-fashioned apparatus. The truth is, technology has come a long way towards making assistive listening devices comfortable, small, and cosmetically appealing.

Take a look at some of these more common myths about hearing aids and the truth that Penticton, BC audiologists want you to know.

Myth: Even though you are experiencing some hearing loss, it is not bad enough to require an assistive listening device.

Fact: If you suffer from any degree of hearing loss, you are missing out on the ability to fully enjoy life. Even loss in one ear can affect your ability to hear certain sounds; binaural hearing is required to judge depth and distance. An audiologist may be able to recommend a very simple solution, but you will never know if you do not make an appointment for an evaluation.

Myth: Wearing a hearing aid actually damages your hearing further.

Fact: A hearing aid is meant to enhance your ability to hear, not further damage your ear. An audiologist in Penticton is trained in the proper fitting procedures and will ensure that a prescribed device is just right for your physical requirements. Each one is made to your specifications and can be adjusted as necessary. Myth: A hearing aid can fully restore your ability to hear, much like eyeglasses are prescribed to restore your vision to 20/20.

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Fact: There is no way to restore hearing that has been damaged. Assistive listening devices are not a cure, rather they are a treatment. Hearing aids work by improving your ear’s ability to distinguish sounds. In some cases, you may experience a full capacity to hear things as you once did; in other cases you will experience a substantial improvement.

Myth: “Invisible” hearing aids that are placed in the ear canal are the best ones on the market for most people.

Fact: There are many different options today. All of them are technologically advanced and each type is made for specific circumstances. Only an audiologist can determine which one is best for the degree and type of your hearing loss, as well as your personal needs. While most of us prefer an assistive listening device to be as unobtrusive as possible, an “invisible” hearing aid may not be appropriate in your case.

Myth: Hearing aids are too expensive for you to afford.

Fact: Your audiologist is well equipped to offer various solutions for your hearing loss that will fit in your budget. There are several government subsidy programs in Canada that may be able to help you with the cost or, in some cases, pay the full amount for your hearing aid. Ask your audiologist about this option.

When making an appointment with a Penticton, BC audiologist, rest assured that their knowledge and professionalism will help you find the perfect solution to your hearing loss. Don’t be misled by the numerous facts surrounding hearing loss and assistive listening devices. Talk to a trained professional and get help today.