WHY DO SOME PEOPLE REJECT HEARING AIDS?

There may be several reasons why people reject hearing aids. Fortunately, most people like their hearing aids and are very satisfied with them. Below is a listing of just a few reasons why hearing aids may be rejected.

Denial
For one who does not think there is a problem, there is no cure. What some people frequently forget is how important our hearing is to the quality of our lives. As the ability to hear diminishes, so does the ability to communicate. Many people live their lives with insecurity and slowly remove themselves from friends and family to avoid being embarrassed. Recognizing that hearing loss is present and that it is a problem is the first step in rehabilitation.

Size and Appearance
Some people are concerned about the stigma of wearing large hearing aids because they feel that it might portray an idea of disability or aging. Now there are smaller sizes of hearing aids that make this concern not as traumatic for the person. It is important to note, however, that not all hearing losses can be fit with smaller hearing aids. Also, ear and canal size may limit use of smaller aids. Your audiologist is best suited to advise you regarding your candidacy for different size hearing aids.

Currently we have in-the-canal (ITC) instruments and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) instruments. The CIC hearing aids are difficult to see in normal social settings. The ITC hearing aids are a little larger and can be seen fitted just over the entrance to the ear canal. Our comprehensive hearing aid evaluations will assist you in matching a hearing aid with your specific needs.

Poor Advice
Some people may give you their own personal advice about hearing aids whether you asked for it or not. Some may even inform you that hearing aids do not work. Regrettably, these few people vocalize their opinions the loudest. With better technology in hearing aids, recent studies report that three out of four wearers had significant improvement in the quality of life and were very satisfied with their hearing aids. Even in very loud situations, two out of four wearers were satisfied. Keep in mind, however, that even people with normal hearing have difficulty communicating in loud environments.

Investment In Your Quality Of Life
Finally, quality hearing aids are not inexpensive. Hearing aids should be considered an investment in your health and quality of life. The cost of one hearing aid ranges from $800 to $2,500. Factors such as digital processing, size and individual needs are considerations that determine what a hearing aid costs.


The Center For ENT
St. Luke's Medical Tower | 6624 Fannin, Suite 1480 | Houston, TX 77030
Tel: 713-795-5343 - Fax: 713-795-4851
All Rights Reserved 2001- Drs. Weber, Moses, Hung, & Powitzky, LLP
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