I am looking for my first hearing aid...suggestions?

[mdmurrell]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

[Toymeister]

Costco or Sam's Club rebrand popular aids and sell them at a fraction of the cost.

[ureout]

yes costco and sams are cheaper but what ever brand you choose make sure they are the newest HA's available as far as technology .. I have a friend who purchased from costco and they were new HA's but 2nd generation technology ... also make sure you have unlimited lifetime visits for adjustments/fine tuning the first few months can be frustrating getting them fine tuned .. if you spend a lot of time outdoors make sure the HA's have a strong wind supression other wise all you will hear is the crackling noise from wind .. another feature is streaming your TV and phone calls .. I find streamimg raises my comprehension to about 90% on most programs and do not need to use closed caption.. and last but not least is battery consumption.. I wear Resound Omnia's and they are rechareable so every night I just stick them in the charger .. I usually wear my HA's about 15hrs a day and still have about 40% charge left at end of the day .. I stream TV anywhere from 5hrs weekdays to 8/10 hrs watching sports on weekends.. streaming TV uses more battery life

[MrFlorida]

Costco, free hearing test, and great price for hearing aids.

[Two Bills]

Get a good Audiologist to test you before even considering a purchase.
Sam's and Costco seem pretty straight from reviews I have read on this board.
There are some charlatans out there pushing expensive, over need.
Give yourself time to adjust to your aids. I left it late to start using them, and found every day sound LOUD!
In my experience, behind the ear is best. In the ear for me never felt secure.
When you get your test, and quote, shop around, although the two recommendations above are very competitive.
Good luck, and welcome back to the world of sound.

[villagetinker]

I agree with most of the above, you need a AUDIOLOGIST to test your hearing, there is a difference, and if you happen to have wax build up, most of the hearing TECHINICIANS cannot remove the wax, and Audiologist can. Once you have the hearing test, they can tell you if OTC (Over The Counter) hearing aids are suitable (in my case with moderate hearing loss they are). Then you will need to review the various options, over the ear tend to be less expensive BUT can suffer from wind noise, if you have a convertible car this can be annoying. I have not tried other styles, but will probably stick with this style on the next set.

[Babubhat]

Al Turri villages health for an evaluation. You can buy or get on subscription basis with maintenance.

Al Turri - Director of Audiology - The Villages Health (https://thevillageshealth.com/staff/al-turri/)

[Kelevision]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

I went to Home - Mid Florida Hearing (https://midfloridahearing.com/) it’s in the Lake Deaton Publix Plaza.
I highly recommend.

[npwalters]

I agree with the comments above concerning Costco. The big name store vendors will charge you twice what their worth with a variety of come ons.

Do invest in good technology. I can bluetooth the TV and anything on my phone (music, audio books, etc) directly into my hearing aids. The ability to answer the phone with my aids and then both hear and speak using only the aids is valuable to me. I used my less capable aids only occasionally. I keep these in my ear all day long.

[oldtimes]

yes costco and sams are cheaper but what ever brand you choose make sure they are the newest HA's available as far as technology .. I have a friend who purchased from costco and they were new HA's but 2nd generation technology ... also make sure you have unlimited lifetime visits for adjustments/fine tuning the first few months can be frustrating getting them fine tuned .. if you spend a lot of time outdoors make sure the HA's have a strong wind supression other wise all you will hear is the crackling noise from wind .. another feature is streaming your TV and phone calls .. I find streamimg raises my comprehension to about 90% on most programs and do not need to use closed caption.. and last but not least is battery consumption.. I wear Resound Omnia's and they are rechareable so every night I just stick them in the charger .. I usually wear my HA's about 15hrs a day and still have about 40% charge left at end of the day .. I stream TV anywhere from 5hrs weekdays to 8/10 hrs watching sports on weekends.. streaming TV uses more battery life

This is excellent advice. If your hearing loss is mild to moderate it isn’t such a big deal but if your hearing loss is severe, like mine, you really need the very latest technology available to be able to fine tune to the frequencies you have lost. My audiologist retests me every year to adjust as necessary.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

My audiologist is at The Villages Health. She did the testing, made the recommendations, and gave me a 60-day free trial of the model she recommended. It ended up being a 90-day trial, plus she matched a price for the same model I found online from my FloridaBlue affiliated hearing company (I think it was hearusa.com? Something like that). She also threw in a bluetooth TV streaming device, which I use on my desktop computer, since that's where I usually watch movies and such. With the discounted price I paid, I /also/ get three years of adjustments, a yearly hearing test, firmware updates, one battery replacement, and all the tails and wax caps I need.

[Michael G.]

Great discussion on hearing aids.
I'm going to take the plunge soon and sitting here taking notes.

[Andyhope]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend
Welcome to a world of frustration

[jump4]

The Villages Health - $6000+ per pair
Costco - under $2000 with free lifetime adjustments
Both, top-line name-brand.

OTC - under $1000

[Kelevision]

Welcome to a world of frustration

Why? I just got one 3 weeks ago. I don’t have frustration.

[mdmurrell]

My audiologist is at The Villages Health. She did the testing, made the recommendations, and gave me a 60-day free trial of the model she recommended. It ended up being a 90-day trial, plus she matched a price for the same model I found online from my FloridaBlue affiliated hearing company (I think it was hearusa.com? Something like that). She also threw in a bluetooth TV streaming device, which I use on my desktop computer, since that's where I usually watch movies and such. With the discounted price I paid, I /also/ get three years of adjustments, a yearly hearing test, firmware updates, one battery replacement, and all the tails and wax caps I need.
Dear Orange Blossom,
Thanks for the information and taking time to reply. Could you please give me the name of your audiologist?
Many Thanks,
Michael

[gnabatoff]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

Get the best that you can afford. Costco, sams do not sell latest technology . Starkey is the best. Audiologist in colony plaza sells them. It takes 2 to 3 weeks to adjust to them when first using them. Your Audiologist guides you through this. Never a charge.

[TorriJ]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

I got mine 6 years ago in my home state via an audiologist. I got the Oticon brand and they changed my life. I can stream from my phone and iPad which makes phone calls so much easier and I can watch a video clip without annoying everyone. There are also special settings for crowded room situations and other situations. Now that I live here, I see Dr Greg Freeman at Villages Health who connects with my hearing aids for upgrades and has never tried to upsell. He said these are the best for me and keep using them till they break. I go for a hearing test every year and he makes adjustments. The Villages Health Audiology takes all kinds of insurance.

Good for you for taking this step. Having hearing aids also improves your brain health.

[cwhitecat]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

Hearing Aids from Hear Again America
16770 Hwy 441, Ste #604
352-347-2700
They are very knowledgeable, helpful and easy to work with.
They sell more than one brand, I have PHONAK and am very happy with them.

[HiHoSteveO]

The May/June 2023 issue of Consumer Reports has a report on the newly legal, non-prescription "Over the Counter" hearing aids. They rated some of them but you'll need to subscribe to the magazine or go to the library to read the full report.

Here's the article without the specific ratings.
A Complete Guide to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids - Consumer Reports (https://www.consumerreports.org/health/hearing-aids/complete-guide-to-over-the-counter-hearing-aids-a3898239010/)

[Debfrommaine]

Al Turri villages health for an evaluation. You can buy or get on subscription basis with maintenance.

Al Turri - Director of Audiology - The Villages Health (https://thevillageshealth.com/staff/al-turri/)

Turri recommends going every four months to have the aids checked for $60 (to have the doctor check them) per or the Assistant's fees are $40 per. I believe the yearly fee is $200 anytime. Insurance can not be used for these visits so we found out.

[Kelevision]

I had ear surgery about 20 years ago and have had significant hearing loss in one ear since. I finally decided to get a hearing aid. I live south of 44 so wanted someone close. My sister sells hearing aids in Lakeland FL so I knew I would discuss with her the brand, price etc first. I made my appointment at Mid FLorida Hearing in Lake Deaton Plaza. I double checked the pricing and brand with my sister and she gave me the green light to move forward. I love being able to answer/talk on the phone through my hearing aid, stream on my phone or iPad and most of all, hear again out of that ear. It’s important to live some what close as you’ll need to go in for adjustments and cleanings all which are included in the price of the hearing aid. Bart wanted to start me out at only 85% because it had been such a long time my hearing had been bad, I’m now at 90% and will go up to 100% on my 3 month cleaning. So, in the first month, I’ll have gone in for 4 appointments. I go back in another 2 weeks and he did say he’d go up to 100 at anytime I wanted. I got the Phonak L 50 R and my sister said that’s the one she fits the most in Lakeland. Bart said that was one of the best brands out there and after doing my own research, agree it’s a great one. Good luck!

[MidWestIA]

Costco

[Rlmsrm3755]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

If you are a veteran, check with the VA hospital in The Villages. You may have to wait several months for an appointment but the service that I received was excellent and you can not beat their price.

[Burnie]

Where's Costco? None nearby that I know of.

[oldtimes]

The Villages Health - $6000+ per pair
Costco - under $2000 with free lifetime adjustments
Both, top-line name-brand.

OTC - under $1000

It totally depends on the level of hearing loss. They need to come with a very good audiologist who can properly adjust them for the range of sound you are missing.

[cphague]

I just got my first hearing aids at Costco a week ago. Here are the steps I took:

1 - I took the hearing test online at soundly.com. Have good quality headphones for this. It will give you a good idea of your issues. It told me my hearing loss was severe enough that I should avoid the over the counter hearing aids which are for mild to moderate hearing issues.
2 - I setup an appointment at the Costco in Lutz (about an hour away and great shopping and restaurants all around it).
3 - Then before Costco I had an appointment with my family doctor to check out my ears and clean the wax as that is a problem I have as well and Costco will not do the test if there is wax build up.
4 - The audiologist did a very extensive hearing test. I thought I would buy their Jabra brand hearing aid and he said I needed the Phillips and explained why.
5 - I had my Phillips hearing aid a week later. There are sounds I am hearing that I had completely forgotten about, I hear what people say to me and music sounds amazing again.

[ryno]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

I have used hearing aids for years but needed updating.
Used John at Digital Ear in Colony Plaza. Impressive examination, professional experience, new digital hearing aids with many new features, and very fast delivery.
Excellent delivery orientation, no problem with helping me understand the new features and how to implement and fine tune. Highly recommend!

[srockey]

When I started looking about 4 years ago, I did the Sam's test and looked at their hearing aids. After looking around I too found that Sam's was much cheaper but had old, old technology. They told me Bluetooth was just another cost, and it would not use it. I use it all the time. Go to a good audiologist. OTS aids may be good, but how will they be adjusted for your personal needs through your audiogram? Hearing aids don't bring back your hearing the way it was, but they do help. Good luck.

[mbene]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

Do hearing aids help with ringing in the ears?

[Two Bills]

Do hearing aids help with ringing in the ears?

I read a report that said if a person has hearing loss as well as Tinnitus, hearing aids may improve the condition.
I should imagine if you have no hearing loss, and still try a hearing aid, if nothing improves, the ringing should sound better. :icon_wink:

[Two Bills]

Turri recommends going every four months to have the aids checked for $60 (to have the doctor check them) per or the Assistant's fees are $40 per. I believe the yearly fee is $200.

Once you have the aids set up and balanced, that seems like overkill to me, and more about the money than after care.
I very seldom see my audiologist, unless I have a problem.
You would soon know if your aids need service or adjusting.
JMO.

[OhioBuckeye]

As much as I hate the idea, it is time for me to look for my first set of hearing aids. I have looked at Google Reviews, of course, and find it pretty confusing. So I am asking those of you who have had the experience of buying and using hearing aids to comment on what you have learned and what you would recommend.

All ears.

Michael Murrell
Marsh Bend

Buy just what you need, don’t get a bunch of bells & whistles that you don’t need. I bought the top of the line, (Phonax) they said at the time the were the best. Actually it was a mistake because the only thing I had hooked up to mine was Bluetooth phone calls, I can talk to anybody even if I set my phone down & I’m across a room I can have a conversation. I think there’s 6 or 7 other things it can do but I got them because the clairity was very good. Also I thought if I bought the best I would never have to buy any other Hearing aide. The Ins. I have I can get certain Hearing Aide for free. They work fine. But this way I never let the Audiologist talk me into any other kind to let them make money off of me. My suggestion is buy whatever let’s you hear clearly! Nobodies Hearing is the same.

[NoMo50]

I have been wearing hearing aids for about 15 years now. For the past 7 years, I have been going to Costco for those needs. I have "severe" loss in one ear, and "profound" loss in the other. In my experience (YMMV), Costco provided the best and most complete hearing exam I have ever had.

My current aids are the Costco-branded Kirkland Signature KS10 model. These aids are manufactured by Sonova, and are, in reality, a white label version of Sonova's Phonak Paradise model...their flagship brand at the time I got them. They are certainly not "old technology." In fact, Costco uses Phonak branded software to set up and adjust the instruments. These are digital, Bluetooth devices that connect directly to a television and my phone. The best part is that the Kirkland branded aids were 1/3 the price of their Phonak brother, and the hearing test at Costco is free.

The Kirkland KS10 is no available any longer. The speculation is Costco is preparing to come out with a KS11 model, which fits their historical timeline. They typically come out with a new model every couple of years, and last fall Phonak introduced a new model, the Phonak Lumity. Less than a month later, Costco discontinued the sale of the KS10. The theory is that a new KS11 will come out this year as a white label Phonak Lumity model. If true, expect to get a high end, current technology hearing aid at a very reasonable price.

Some folks have said that Costco discontinued the KS10 model due to rechargeability issues, but I have not experienced that problem. They continue to offer an unbeatable warranty, lifetime cleanings and adjustments, free hearing tests, and the lowest retail pricing. I think I'll stick with them.

[Heytubes]

I’ve had Resound, Oticon and Phonak. I prefer the Phonak for clarity and having the tv and phone Bluetooth ability. If you’re a veteran, the VA will test you for free. If you need aids, they are free also.

[Laker]

I don't have major hearing loss, and now that you can buy over-the-counter hearing aids I went online and bought a set from Bossa Hearing Aid Co. They sell a wide variety, I bought a pair that they advertised as "invisible". They were not. So they said send them back and we will refund your money per our return policy. So I returned them, they acknowledged receipt, and have kept my money, so far for four months.

I am filing a complaint with the state of Florida consumer fraud division.
So avoid Bossa Hearing aids.

[mydavid]

If you are a Vet, you maybe to get them free.

[mark100]

We use only Pronak. They are expensive but ours lasted 7 years before we had to replace them. Minimal repairs during the 7 years. Check out Renaissance Hearing in the shopping center, Wildwood. Excellent service and an indepth hearing test before the owner sells you.

[cphague]

Do hearing aids help with ringing in the ears?

What I've read:

It depends on what is causing the ringing. If it is a medical condition such as a disease, then probably not and you need to go to a doctor.

If it is due to standard hearing loss from nerve damage and old age...maybe. I've had my hearing aids for a week and I've noticed the ringing has decreased some and am hoping that as my brain gets used to the sounds I am hearing again then it will stop the ringing it gives me.

[LianneMigiano]

I have found that I'm hearing more proficiently when I put them on as soon as I get up in the morning and remove them just before I hop into bed. Be careful with your hands near them if you wear glasses or have longer hair. I once had the type that was completely in my ear and lost one (I guess when pushing my hair away from my face). I now occasionally catch the over-the-ear part in my hand when fiddling with my eyeglasses or my hair.

[jjombrello]

Go to Mid-Florida Hearing in Deaton Plaza. Family-owned business and well run. I would recommend the Phonak hearing aids as I have had them for several years and they work great and are very comfortable.

[rogerk]

yes costco and sams are cheaper but what ever brand you choose make sure they are the newest HA's available as far as technology .. I have a friend who purchased from costco and they were new HA's but 2nd generation technology ... also make sure you have unlimited lifetime visits for adjustments/fine tuning the first few months can be frustrating getting them fine tuned .. if you spend a lot of time outdoors make sure the HA's have a strong wind supression other wise all you will hear is the crackling noise from wind .. another feature is streaming your TV and phone calls .. I find streamimg raises my comprehension to about 90% on most programs and do not need to use closed caption.. and last but not least is battery consumption.. I wear Resound Omnia's and they are rechareable so every night I just stick them in the charger .. I usually wear my HA's about 15hrs a day and still have about 40% charge left at end of the day .. I stream TV anywhere from 5hrs weekdays to 8/10 hrs watching sports on weekends.. streaming TV uses more battery life
Totally agree! Having worn hearing aids for over 10 years. I started needing them after we moved here. Lots of so called ‘discounts’ out there. Usually older technology. A qualified Audiologist at at a reputable Medical Practice assures you are getting the best care and best options. Don’t buy on price!

I recommend Lake Ears, Nose and Throat. They have a couple of offices. Their number is: (352) 753-8448. They have 3 Audiologists, my favorite is Mindy. She is patient and willing to work with me every time I need new hearing aids to get them adjusted to my needs. New technology comes every 5 or so years. As my hearing has deteriorated so far technology has advanced to keep me able to fully participate in life.

Many people buy on price and then wonder why they don’t see the full benefits of their new hearing aids.

[npwalters]

Totally agree! Having worn hearing aids for over 10 years. I started needing them after we moved here. Lots of so called ‘discounts’ out there. Usually older technology. A qualified Audiologist at at a reputable Medical Practice assures you are getting the best care and best options. Don’t buy on price!

I recommend Lake Ears, Nose and Throat. They have a couple of offices. Their number is: (352) 753-8448. They have 3 Audiologists, my favorite is Mindy. She is patient and willing to work with me every time I need new hearing aids to get them adjusted to my needs. New technology comes every 5 or so years. As my hearing has deteriorated so far technology has advanced to keep me able to fully participate in life.

Many people buy on price and then wonder why they don’t see the full benefits of their new hearing aids.

I would say don't buy on price ONLY. You can get exactly the same technology at Costco (and a few others) as at the big name hearing aid stores and clinics. Bear in mind that after you go to the clinic, that Dr will still go to the open market to recommend and buy the actual aid. It will just be increased in price as it is resold to you.

Testing for and programming hearing aids is no longer an "art". It is computer driven and a good technician is the key factor in a custom fit. Not discounting the value of a good audiologist -especially if you have an odd type of hearing loss - but pointing out the advance in technology that has changed their role.

[Shoogley]

If you buy over the ear with mold. It will be equal to your hearing when you were born. Research reviews for good customer service.
I had Phonak and it drove me crazy till I reported a professor for lying to me.
With the correct settings you can hear a pin drop. And a direct connection to the manufacturer at customer service to report anything strange which has never happened in 20 years. A very satisfied customer.

[juddfl]

Go to a audiologist. I go to Dr. Milstead at Lake ENT & FPS. The phone # is 352-753-8448. She will clean your ears if they need it.

[Buckeyephan]

Please be aware of the differences among hearing professionals. Most people you see selling hearing aids are not audiologists and may or may not be a trained hearing aid specialist. Anyone can do a hearing test with minimal training. An audiologist has specialized college training and look for one who has earned an advanced degree as a doctor of audiology. An ENT is a medical doctor specializing in ear, nose and throat conditions. You have every right to ask to see credentials. While choosing which hearing aids to purchase, I encountered many that were so shady that I would trust a used car salesman more.

[npwalters]

Please be aware of the differences among hearing professionals. Most people you see selling hearing aids are not audiologists and may or may not be a trained hearing aid specialist. Anyone can do a hearing test with minimal training. An audiologist has specialized college training and look for one who has earned an advanced degree as a doctor of audiology. An ENT is a medical doctor specializing in ear, nose and throat conditions. You have every right to ask to see credentials. While choosing which hearing aids to purchase, I encountered many that were so shady that I would trust a used car salesman more.

I will repeat my statement from above. Mapping hearing loss and programming a hearing aid in almost all cases is now a computer driven process. A savvy technician is at least as skilled in this narrow endeavor as any MD or audiologist.

A person with an unusual hearing loss/condition (such as bone conduction loss) should see a MD or good audiologist.

[MTSU92]

I have high frequency loss and I got Phonak HA and am very satisfied. I believe the key is to get a good audiologist that does a good job adjusting them where everything sounds natural. Find an audiologist that conducts real ear measurements.

[ChrisTee]

Costco, hands down. If you have the funds, buy the most current model/technology.

[Michael G.]

Costco, hands down. If you have the funds, buy the most current model/technology.

I don't doubt you but that's a long drive and what about adjustments on your hearing ads?
Is it really with it?

[Snowbirdtobe]

Go to see a doctor of Audiology for the initial exam then shop around for aids. My wife has had hearing problems for much of her life and tried the old style hearing aids without success.
She went to see Paige Holt at Lake ENT to try out digital hearing aids 10 years ago and got high end digital aids. Before her aids she couldn't hear birds sing or engage in a conversation when there was background noise.
She can't say enough good things about Doctor Paige Holt, AuD (352) 561-3315.

[Northerner52]

Angelo Darby at Rennasance Hearing in Wildwood Plaza for personal service and fair pricing.

[Bilyclub]

I bought at Costco up North. You can go to any Costco with a hearing center to get them cleaned or adjusted. I have yet to need them adjusted. The free cleanings come in handy. I currently use the Westley Chapel/ Lutz location about once a month for shopping and get them cleaned while I shop. Mine are two years old and have a phone app and bluetooth.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Dear Orange Blossom,
Thanks for the information and taking time to reply. Could you please give me the name of your audiologist?
Many Thanks,
Michael

That's Doctor Tess Waldo, at The Villages Health, Santa Barbara Center. It's behind the Publix on 441 next to the hospital.