Now Hear This

One out of every three Americans over age 65 has a hearing loss. Only a very small percentage of these people have a hearing aid. The number-one reason? They are unable to afford them. Another reason is often related to the negative comments from family and friends about hearing aids. If you have a hearing loss, know the facts about hearing aids.

I've been told that I have nerve deafness and no hearing aid can help me.

Hearing aid technology has improved over the years. People who could not benefit from hearing aids in the past may find that newer hearing aids can help.

Why should I see a specialist or audiologist if I suspect a hearing loss?

There may be a medical reason for your hearing loss and only a medical professional specializing in hearing loss can diagnose this. Some medical causes may require treatment. To be fitted for a hearing aid without further examination may only cover up the pre-existing symptoms until the problem grows worse.

What kinds of hearing aids are there?

There are analog and digital hearing aids, which process sound differently. And there are implantable hearing aids. Important features to have in every hearing aid are 1) directional microphones to hear better in noisy places, and 2) a telephone coil (telecoil) to hear better on the telephone.

What is an assistive listening device (ALD)?

It's an electronic device used for listening situations such as speeches in an auditorium, classroom and conversations in noisy environments. Many hearing aid users do not realize that an ALD can be used with their hearing aids. It's important to note that a hearing aid must have a telecoil option to be used with an ALD. An ALD helps eliminate background noise. They're not too expensive; some are less than $100 and you can put them on your gift list!

What should I know before buying a hearing aid? 

First get a medical evaluation from your physician or audiologist. Bring the copy of your audiogram with you to be fitted for a hearing aid. Minnesota law requires hearing aid dispensers to have a certificate from the Minnesota Department of Health. Call (651) 282-5622 or (800) 657-3837 to determine whether the hearing aid dispenser is certified. You can also check the Minnesota Better Business Bureau at (651) 699-1111 to see if any complaints were filed against the business.

Ask about cost, guarantees, service costs, and providing a loaner if the hearing aid needs repair. By law you have 30 days to try out the hearing aid. Remember it will take time to get used to hearing sounds through a hearing aid, so allow yourself time to adjust to it and experiment in different situations.

Are there any financial resources available to get help in purchasing hearing aids? 

Check your medical insurance policy. Although few policies cover hearing aids, it's worth a try. Some hearing aid sellers may have reconditioned hearing aids, special financing, or special programs. Veterans can check into their VA Medical Center to see if they qualify for hearing aids. There are loan and financial aid programs to help low- to medium-income people. Visit the Minnesota's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Web site, www.dhs.state.mn.us and click on "Services for People who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing" and "Hearing aids" to download any of their nine consumer pamphlets: 

• Hearing and hearing loss
• Myths about hearing aids
• Buying a hearing aid
• Types of hearing aids
• Getting used to hearing aids
• Care and troubleshooting of hearing aids
• Assistive listening devices and hearing aids
• Consumer rights and laws
• Financial resources for hearing aids.

If you don't have a computer, call (800) 456-3690 for the pamphlet of your choice or to ask questions.

This article was prepared by Rich Diedrichsen, M.S., RCD, regional manager, State of Minnesota Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, St. Cloud. To contact the state's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services through Minnesota Relay, call (877) 627-3848 toll free. 

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Health Care Choices for Minnesota Seniors