As a person ages, hearing loss is can become an issue. There are many things that can cause hearing loss, especially as a person gets older. Hearing loss can begin slowly and cause complications for those with this issue. There are also studies that have linked hearing loss to other issues, such as confusion and dementia. For many people with hearing loss, a hearing aid can be very beneficial. These devices can help provide better hearing for users and make life more enjoyable again. Unfortunately, hearing aids can be quite costly and are not always covered by insurance. This can make it difficult for one to have improved hearing. Fortunately, one can buy used hearing aids to ease the burden of cost. However, there are certain steps one must take to ensure they receive a well working device that is right for them.
Diagnosis of Hearing Loss
Before one even considers purchasing a hearing aid, it is strongly recommended to get a hearing evaluation from a license professional. A doctor can give a patient with issues of hearing loss, a complete evaluation. This can help them identify any underlying cause of the hearing loss. Sometimes, there are methods that can reverse the loss of hearing in patients. Some infections can cause hearing loss. These causes can be treated with medications to remove the infection. Sometimes, hearing loss is due to build up of wax in the ear. The wax can be removed to restore hearing. In addition, damage to parts of the inner ear can be the cause. Many of these can also be corrected with treatments and/or surgery.
Evaluation of Type of Hearing Loss
If hearing loss cannot be corrected by such treatments, a hearing aid may be an option. A audiologist can evaluate the patient and determine if a hearing aid is the best option for restoring hearing. This evaluation will determine the level and type of hearing loss experienced. This will help to determine if a hearing aid is an option, as well as what type of hearing aid will work best for the patient. Facilities, such as Sandia Hearing in Colorado Springs, offer full evaluations and annual check ups to determine the extent and type of hearing loss. They can also explain all results and help determine the best option for the individual patient.
Hearing Aid Fitting
Hearing aids are not just devices that amplify sound. They are actually complex medical devices that utilize digital technology to provide the patient with the best hearing possible. These hearing devices must be set by an audiologist to fit the specific needs of a patient. In addition, each person has a different type of ear and differences in what is comfortable for them. A fitting done by a professional audiologist will find hearing aid brands that will suit the specific needs of the patient, as well as one that will feel comfortable for them. Many facilities offer free trials to allow a patient to wear the device for a period with no risk.
Used Hearing Aids
Cost can be a problem for many people who need a hearing aid. There are options available that can allow a person to buy used hearing aids. However, not all can be safe for the user. In most states, there are explicit rules for purchasing used hearing aids. The hearing aid must be certified to be of as good quality as a new device. In addition, many states require that only licensed professionals sell these devices. It also requires that the person has had an exam that details their hearing loss in the past six months before they can purchase this device.
There are ways to buy used hearing aids without the restriction, such as through online stores. However, it is strongly recommended that one only purchases through a license retailer. Outside of these licensed and professional hearing facilities, it can be difficult to know what one is getting. In addition, they may not be of the same quality or be accurately adjusted to suit the specific hearing loss of the patient. Many of these products bought online do not come with any type of warranty. This can leave a person at risk of losing money due to the product breaking or malfunctioning.
There are facilities, such as Sandia Hearing in Colorado Springs, that offer used hearing aids for sale. They offer a large selection of name brand devices that can provide great benefits to those with hearing issues. They also offer many certified refurbished hearing aids at discounted prices to save money for the user. Each patient will be evaluated for their specific type of hearing loss. They will also evaluate the lifestyle maintained by the patient to provide the right level of device they will need. A mold will be created of the ear to determine the best device to fit the patient.
After the hearing aid is chosen, the patient can have time to try it out and see if it works for them. If it is not a perfect fit, they will work with the patient until the best fit is found. At a hearing center, these devices, new and used, come with warranties to cover issues with the hearing aid. They also offer repair services to ensure the device is working at its best. Another benefit of purchasing a used hearing aid at a facility, such as Sandia Hearing, is that they offer annual check ups. These check ups look for any changes in hearing, as well as ensure the device is still working for the patient. This helps ensure the patient not only has improved hearing, but remains comfortable with their device, as well.