Knowing how to buy hearing aids takes some research like any technology purchase. Buyers want to undertand their options and the tradeoffs to make the right choice. Here is a three-step guide from Amplifon to help your members or employees discover which type of hearing aid makes sense for them.
Making the decision to treat hearing loss with hearing aids is an exciting, life-changing decision. These tiny devices can transform the way you engage with the world, allowing you to pick up subtle sounds that might otherwise be missed. Hearing laughter, music and everyday conversation clearly again brings joy and builds confidence—that’s why it’s so important to learn how to approach buying hearing aids and finding the right device for your personal needs.
With so many products on the market, getting started can feel overwhelming and you may even be unsure of where to begin. This guide will walk you through the process of how to shop for hearing aids, providing an overview of the different models available and the advantages each type offers. As you think about how to pick your hearing aids, understanding your options fully will help you decide what makes the most sense for your lifestyle. While COVID-19 is changing the way, we go about our lives, you can still do most of your research and reflection from home before making a purchase. Use this step-by-step process to make a confident decision and ultimately enjoy the benefits of hearing life to the fullest.
Before asking “Where can I buy hearing aids?” or “When is the best time of the year to buy a hearing aid?”, start the shopping process by taking a look at all the types you have to choose from. Today’s advanced technology means there are more styles, features and capabilities than ever before. These are designed with different customer preferences in mind: learning about hearing solutions on the market is the first step in making an informed decision and buying a hearing aid.
The types of hearing aid solutions that are often most sought after including:
Discreet hearing aids:
Discreet hearing aids are extremely small yet powerful, designed to help the wearer hear more without their hearing aids being seen. The in-the-ear (ITE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid models are both nearly invisible, keeping the focus on you instead of your hearing devices.
Rechargeable hearing aids:
While many traditional hearing aids use batteries, rechargeable hearing aids are now available as an alternative. This technology is also eco-friendly, eliminating the need to replace batteries on a regular basis—no need to worry about bringing spare batteries with you when you leave the house either. Simply charge these overnight for 19-24 hours of power. Plus, they also have a sealed battery compartment, which improves moisture resistance and the reliability of the hearing aid.
Connectable hearing aids:
Bluetooth-enabled devices mean that the hearing aid’s benefits extend beyond sound amplification. These tech-forward hearing aids can connect to other devices like your TV or smartphone, enabling you to stream the audio signal directly into your ears for a comfortable, personalized listening experience.
Affordable hearing aids:
More basic hearing aids are durable and budget-friendly, offering accessible everyday essential features. Even basic hearing technology has significantly more features than even a few years ago resulting in them being quite high tech. Behind-the-ear (BTE) models are comfortable and easy to use, while receiver-in-canal (RIC) models provide precise sound quality and are suitable for almost any type of hearing loss.
Now that you’ve learned about the variety of products on the market, take some time to evaluate which type makes sense for your lifestyle and preferences. Buying a hearing aid is a long-term investment, so it’s important to choose one that really aligns with your personal priorities. Some of the factors you’ll want to take into consideration include:
Lifestyle:
Think about how you spend your time. For example, if you’re very active and frequently on-the-go, convenience may be an important priority when deciding how to settle on a hearing aid. In this case, a rechargeable hearing aid’s long runtime and lifespan may be most compatible with your needs. If the appearance of a hearing aid is important, the smaller, more discreet hearing aid styles may be of interest. Reflecting on what features are most important to you will help you narrow down your options and come to a decision.
Budget and Financing:
It’s no secret that buying a hearing aid is a long-term investment—but they’re also designed to be affordable, which is why a range of models are available at different price points. So, how much are hearing aids, typically? On average, two hearing aids cost between $1 and $7 dollars per day, when broken down over the span of 3 to 5 years. Learn more about how to shop for hearing aids on a budget and details about pricing and financing your hearing aids. With proper maintenance and regular cleanings, hearing aid devices are built to last for years, and consistent checks, repairs and expert services help ensure that is possible.
Technology:
Ask yourself which model is the best hearing aid for your day-to-day life. If you frequently use FaceTime, listen to music, use your smartphone, or watch TV, tech-forward bonus features like Bluetooth compatibility may be the right choice for your situation. Think carefully about what type of technology you see yourself using and integrating into your routine. To learn more, review our “Finding your right fit” information sheet.
Once you have figured out how to buy hearing aids and have an understanding of your options and preferences, your final step in the process will be consulting a hearing specialist. Hearing care professionals are passionate about helping you hear all life has to offer—from guiding you through your first hearing test to discussing product options, they are always happy to assist!
During COVID-19, many hearing aid centers are taking special measures like frequent surface sanitization and buffered schedules to create a safe environment where you can feel comfortable. Most are also monitoring recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), while following all guidelines from local and federal health officials to ensure patients and staff are cared for.
Whether you are buying your first hearing aid or interested in upgrading to a new device, take the time to fully understand the different hearing aid models and take advantage of today’s exceptional technology. Be sure to consider what will fit your personal lifestyle, and talk with an expert for additional advice to make sure you are on the right track. You’re just a few steps away from finding a hearing aid that you’ll feel confident wearing every day.
While this guide is geared to consumers, your organization also benefits when your members or employees seek prompt treatment for hearing loss. For health insurers, good hearing creates the potential for healthier members who require less costly medical care. For employers, good hearing contributes to increased collaboration, greater productivity and enhanced safety on the job.
