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Audiology @ GBMC: FAQs Who is a candidate for a hearing aid? What can I expect from my hearing aid?
A hearing aid is an electronic, battery-operated device that amplifies and changes sound in order to allow better communication. Hearing aids receive sound through a microphone and convert the sound to electrical signals. The amplifier inside the hearing aid then increases the loudness of the signals and sends the sound into the ear through a receiver.
Who is a candidate for a hearing aid? Audiologic test results are used to determine the hearing aid candidacy for an adult. Other factors, such as social needs and motivation are also considered. Audiologic results include pure-tone hearing thresholds, speech reception thresholds, and word recognition scores. Test results are used to determine the type, degree, and configuration of each individual's hearing loss. Motivational factors are important in determining whether a patient is a candidate for a hearing aid. It is important to discuss the impact of the hearing loss on everyday life, as well as the patient's perceived need for amplification. A highly motivated patient is more likely to adapt to and receive benefit from the hearing aid. Any child with a hearing loss is a potential hearing aid candidate. Because behavioral responses from children are not always reliable, electrophysiologic testing is completed for infants and children in order to determine the type, degree, and configuration of their hearing loss.
What can I expect from my hearing aid? Using a hearing aid with success takes patience, as hearing aids will not restore your hearing to normal. Becoming adjusted to a hearing aid is a process involving learning to listen in different environments while becoming accustomed to hearing different sounds. There are programs available in hearing aids that will assist you in hearing better in different situations. For example, using digital technology, hearing aids are now able to help you hear better in a situation with background noise. When discussing hearing aids with your audiologist, be sure to fully explain the types of situations in which you will be wearing the hearing aids.
What are the potential benefits? Hearing aid patients should expect that use of hearing aids will ease in communication. However, it should be expected that benefits will vary based on type and degree of hearing loss and the motivation of the user. Hearing aid users should expect to make continual progress over time, although final outcomes will differ based on the factors listed above.
Does insurance cover?
Hearing Aid Fitting and follow-up
Hearing Aid Check/Follow-up:
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