The type of hearing aid device best suited to an individual’s needs will greatly depend on the nature and extent of individual’s hearing loss, and the size and shape of the outer ear canal. Some conditions (i.e. chronic ear drainage) may prevent a person from wearing hearing aids that would block the ear canal and worsen the ear drainage (one option for treatment of hearing loss in cases of chronic ear drainage is a bone-anchored implant. For more information regarding a bone-anchored implant or Baha, please click here.)

A few other factors should be kept in mind when choosing a hearing aid:

• Aesthetic considerations play a large role for some wearers, who may prefer wearing nearly invisible aids.
• Some people prefer a hearing aid that is visible but blends with their skin tone.
• Small hearing aids (in-the-canal or completely-in-the-canal styles: see Types of Aids) also have tiny batteries and an individual with limited dexterity or vision problems may find small hearing aids difficult to operate. Small batteries also have less battery life than larger batteries.
• It is a good idea to carefully examine the hearing aid's warranty; each manufacturer has a different warranty terms for repair, loss and damage.
• Check first with your health insurance provider to find out if the device is covered for loss or damage.
• All hearing aid manufacturers offer trial periods to ensure the person is happy with their new hearing aid. But, make sure to ask whether or not there will be a charge for this service.
• In case of future problems, where can your new hearing aid be repaired? We offer loaner hearing aids for a small fee to use while your hearing aid is out for repair, if needed.

Click here for a discussion of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding hearing aids.