Before buying hearing aids
By Sarah Curtis, Au.D., founder of Sounds of Life Hearing
If you are experiencing hearing loss and seeking solutions, knowing where to turn for help can be confusing.
“Many people are concerned they’ll be ‘sold’ hearing aids,” says Dr. Sarah Curtis, Au.D., founder of Sounds of Life Hearing. “You may have friends who made an investment in hearing aids and it didn’t work out very well for them, or you may think hearing aids are prohibitively expensive so why get tested. And what about the new over-the-counter hearing aids? Should you try those first?”
Dr. Curtis understands these concerns and has some great news.
“There’s an audiologist in your area who is dedicated to your hearing health and its relationship to your overall health,” says Dr. Curtis. “Two professionals have the ability to fit hearing aids—audiologists and hearing aid fitters/dealers/specialists. Only an audiologist has a graduate-level education and can actually diagnose hearing loss.”
Dr. Curtis warns though that all audiologists are not the same. Ask the following questions to get the most out of your visit.
- Do you perform real-ear verification at every fitting?
- Do you fit more than one brand of hearing aids?
- Are your services itemized and unbundled and can I see what I’m paying for?
- What treatment options do you offer beyond hearing aids?
If you’re concerned about the expense of hearing aids, Dr. Curtis offers options.
“Most health insurances have hearing test benefits and there are non-profit organizations and practices dedicated to providing excellent audiological care to everyone regardless of ability to pay,” says Dr. Curtis. “You don’t have to struggle any longer. At Sounds of Life Hearing, we find a way to offer everyone affordable hearing care.”
Sounds of Life Hearing Center is at 8007 Auburn Road, Suite 1 in Mentor. Call 440-579-4085 or visit SoundsOfLifeHC.com.