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Hearing Aids
Do I have a hearing problem?
It is normal for hearing to decline as we get older and this is nothing to be embarrassed about. Do not be put off by the idea of getting a hearing aid, or think it will not make a difference. There are different types of hearing aids to suit most people.
If you find you are turning the TV up or asking people to repeat what they say you are right to consider getting a hearing aid. There are 8 million people in Britain who are hard of hearing and over 2 million have hearing aids, so you are not alone.
What should I do if I think I have a hearing problem?
Firstly, see your doctor. They will examine your ears and do some tests. Sometimes, it can be a simple problem such as too much wax.
If your doctor thinks a hearing aid would be useful, you will be referred to an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist at your local hospital.
If there are no obvious complications or you are over 65 years old, your doctor may refer you directly to the audiology department.
What happens when I see the specialist?
The specialist will examine your ears and ask you about your hearing.
An audiology technician will test your hearing with an audiometer. This measures the sounds you can hear over a range of frequencies. A record will be charted onto an audiogram, which shows the extent of your hearing loss.
What happens if I need a hearing aid?
The technician will take an impression of your ear so that an individual ear mould can be made. When the ear mould is ready, the technician will choose the right hearing aid from the NHS range for you, show you how to use it, and give you free batteries.
You may also have the opportunity to see a hearing therapist. Getting used to your hearing aid takes time and will probably involve more than one visit to the hospital. Many hearing aid departments run a follow-up system.
Going private
A commercial aid may cost from £500 to £2,000+, so be cautious, we always suggest getting a NHS aid first. If however, you find there is likely to be a long delay in getting your NHS aid, you may decide to buy a private aid.
Further help and advice
Read our top tips for using your hearing aid that includes a five-step plan that tackles some of the most common problems. You can also find out the answers to commonly ask questions. If you do have problems, ask the audiology department for help.
Our ten-page factsheet is also available here.
HC FACTSHEET Getting and using a hearing aid.
Or contact the Hearing Concern Helpdesk, we may be able to refer you to a trained Adviser in your area.