More than 38 million Americans report some degree of hearing loss. Many could benefit from a simple hearing aid test, explains Stephanie Lockhart, director of audiology in the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. "I have found that even mild hearing losses can have a significant impact on a person's ability to communicate, particularly in challenging listening environments," Lockhart told WebMD.
According to Lockhart, things your audiologist will consider when recommending hearing aids include:
- Where you have the most trouble hearing
- Lifestyle
- Cosmetic preferences
- Your manual dexterity, which is your skill with using your hands
- Technological preferences
- Financial concerns like insurance, trial periods, warranties, and return policies
"Nothing done during a hearing test should be painful," Lockhart told WebMD. After your hearing test, your audiologist will determine whether you should pursue hearing aids, get another test, or meet with a physician, Lockhart advises.
Bringing along a companion for your visit may also help. "A lot of information will be shared and decisions made and it's a great idea to have a significant other, family member, or close friend there to be an extra pair of ears," says Lockhart.
Read the full story with Stephanie Lockhart in WebMD.
Featured image of older woman with a caregiver is courtesy of Unsplash.
