[hybridcars]

I've been told I need bilateral hearing aids to prevent a further loss of hearing (I have a 20% hearing loss). Trying to separate fact from falsehood re.: the types of hearing aids, and deciphering the hearing aid sales in the paper is difficult. I finally decided those who would know best would be those individuals who have already been down this road. I would appreciate any reply with advice or a suggestion to help me decide what to buy and where to buy it. Thanks for your help.

[n8xwb]

I have used PHONAK hearing aids provided free from the VA for years. They work great and are very reliable. Also have options like connecting directly to my cell phone and TV/stereo.

I would however get another opinion as I am not aware of a condition that would get worse if you don't get hearing aids!? May be you don't really need them. Try googling hearing aids. All info I've found states that using hearing aids does not slow progression of hearing loss. Good luck.

[billethkid]

We can tell you what type we have and why.
You will have to try several to find the correct match for you.
Any reputable audiologist will allow trial of different devices at no cost.
ONLY you can decide by trying!

[KayakerNC]

1st option would be to get your primary physician to refer you to an ENT for examination and an audiogram.
2nd option would be to go to a Costco Hearing Center for your audiogram and HA recommendations.
My Starkey Z-Series I-90 micro RIC's work great for MY hearing loss, but that certainly doesn't mean that you would be happy.

[vorage]

Agree. Please see a Dr of Audiology who has access to multiple types/brands of hearing aids. They will be able to recommend the best choice for your needs and your type of hearing loss. You will be able to try them for a reasonable amount of time (usually 30 days) and during that time, you may need one or several adjustments to the fit or sound characteristics, or even change to a different type. If you get a type that is molded to fit inside the ear, it may need some buffing to make it comfortable. They will happily do that for you. I can't stress enough how important it is to stay on top of things during that trial period.
Keep in mind that there is also a period of adjustment for you and your brain. It is used to the peace and quiet and needs time to wake up. Stay with it and work with your audiologist - don't put them in a drawer and say they don't work.
Finally, if you are a Veteran, explore your options with the VA. They have an excellent program and they are free.

[Snowbirdtobe]

There is a hearing loss support group in the villages and they should be your first stop. The group is run by abf@abfinlayson.com but they only meet Sept-May.
I would see a Doctor of Audiology and not a person in a storefront that sells only one line of products.
If you are a member of the villages health united healthcare plans they have hearing aids for $100 per ear that my wife describes as not bad.
Her regular hearing aids are closer to $2,000 per ear.

[Loudoll]

I know I'm repeating what others wrote but it can't be emphasized enough. I think you may have already been told something false, or maybe you misunderstood (it happens when you need hearing aids), but hearing aids will not prevent further hearing loss. Unfortunately, our hearing is going to get worse. Unless they meant you will be disadvantaged without bilateral aids and not have balanced, directional hearing. It is Florida law that you have a FREE trial period, not the graciousness of the hearing aid vendor. Although, I know they too want you to have the best possible hearing. Please get a good check up at an ENT and then try the audiologist assoiciated with The Villages Health Care. This whole deal can stress you out and make you nervous and feel like giving up. Don't.
They'll work with you and get you hearing the best you can. One thing you need to consider is how many bells and whistles do you want or need with your new hearing aids? Good luck!

[Loudoll]

Originally Posted by n8xwb

I have used PHONAK hearing aids provided free from the VA for years. They work great and are very reliable. Also have options like connecting directly to my cell phone and TV/stereo.

I would however get another opinion as I am not aware of a condition that would get worse if you don't get hearing aids!? May be you don't really need them. Try googling hearing aids. All info I've found states that using hearing aids does not slow progression of hearing loss. Good luck.

That statement bothered me too, that aids will prevent further loss. If anything, too high an amplification could cause hearing loss. I hope she/he hasn't already been misled. Also, all vendors have to give you a free trial, no questions asked if you want your money back. Florida law.

[Loudoll]

Originally Posted by KayakerNC

1st option would be to get your primary physician to refer you to an ENT for examination and an audiogram.
2nd option would be to go to a Costco Hearing Center for your audiogram and HA recommendations.
My Starkey Z-Series I-90 micro RIC's work great for MY hearing loss, but that certainly doesn't mean that you would be happy.

Yes!

[jojo]

My understanding was that wearing hearing aids does not prevent further hearing loss as others posted. However I've heard from medical sources that if the hearing condition is left untreated that there may be irreparable loss.

[Snowbirdtobe]

The problem with long term hearing loss is recovery of speech understanding due to lack of brain stimulation.
The ability to pick out conversations in public or words in music may never return.
Never go to a hearing aid storefront where the person may only have a high school diploma and a 6 month hearing aid dispenser class and sell only one brand.