Most people panic when their audiologist tells them that their hearing test points to hearing loss and hearing aids are recommended.
Old school hearing aids were big, bulky and ugly.
They were uncomfortable and embarrassing to wear.
They frequently malfunctioned, emitting loud screeches at the most inappropriate times.
Most of the negative connotations people have about hearing loss and the need to wear hearing aids is based on these units.
Fortunately, modern hearing instruments are quite different.
The hearing devices of today are small, sleek and discrete.
Most people won't even know you're wearing them.
There are even styles available that are worn completely inside of the ear, making them invisible to the outside world.
There are dozens of hearing instrument manufacturers and each brand has a long list of models.
With so many choices available, a hearing specialist can work with the patient to find just the right model to meet their specific needs and concerns.
The hearing aid industry invests millions of dollars each year into researching hearing loss and testing out new technology to combat it.
The invisible hearing device is a result of this research and testing.
Other technological advances include hearing aids that are wireless, digital and water resistant.
Each type offers unique advantages that make them appealing to different groups of people.
Water resistant hearing devices are great for people who love to swim or spend lots of time outdoors and don't want to worry about getting caught in the rain.
Wireless hearing aids give the wearer a great deal of freedom.
The ReSound Alera was the first wireless device that didn't need a receiver to be worn on the body to function.
Many people believe digital hearing devices provide a higher quality of sound than the traditional analog models.
This is because they operate in a very complicated and precise way due to a tiny computer system installed in each device.
They bring clearer sounds at a higher volume.
Digital hearing devices are also exceptional at tuning out background noises.
It might seem like their higher quality sound deliverances makes them ideal choice for most people.
They can be complicated devices to learn to operate which is overwhelming for some people.
They also cost quite a bit more than analog hearing aids.
Price deters some.
Also, some types of hearing devices work better for certain types and extents of hearing loss than others.
An audiologist will recommend the best types for your specific condition.
Regardless which hearing device style you pick, you'll be amazed at how quickly and clearly your hearing is returned.
Finding the right device is worth the effort.