With so many options available for hearing care, it’s easy to be bombarded with information and advertisements, which can leave you more confused than when you began your search.
When considering hearing care, it’s important you begin with an assessment of your hearing—knowing and understanding the challenge you have is the only way to find the correct solution for you.
A wide range of devices and solutions are available, from low-cost, short-term options right up to personalized treatment plans or implant surgery.
So how do you know which one is right for you?
What You Need to Consider
Your hearing loss is unique to you, and although a one-stop fix seems ideal, you need a hearing solution tailored to you.
For example, consider whether you spend your weekends watching live music, out in nature, or simply at home with loved ones—your lifestyle plays a huge part in your treatment.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the key factors you should consider when making your decision.
- Your degree of hearing loss and how it affects your daily life. Is your hearing loss mild or severe? How many ears does it affect? Do you experience tinnitus?
- Your lifestyle and hobbies. Where do you spend most of your time? Do you enjoy any hobbies in other settings?
- Your budget. Are you looking for a quick-fix or ongoing support and premium quality devices?
- Your care preferences. Would you prefer a full treatment plan, fittings, and ongoing support or are you happy to receive devices as they are?
Ultimately, your perfect solution comes down to you. Here at Denton Hearing Health Care, we want you to be informed of all the choices available and help you make a decision on what works for you.
So, let’s dive in.
Your Different Options
Headphones and Mobile Apps [$0-$250]
Since this option is mostly free or low-cost, it’s an easy solution to very minimal hearing issues. Requiring only very basic technology you most likely already own, this option will only work in environments with little background noise and does not address a hearing challenge.
Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids [$800-$2500]
With FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids now available, this is a great lower-price option for those looking for a quick fix for minimal hearing loss. As they’re not tailored to your hearing loss, they won’t address any hearing challenges or assess your hearing, and you’ll be required to fit the devices yourself.
PSAPs (Personal Sound Amplification Products) [$79-$1250]
These lower-investment products are made simply to increase all sound by using a small microphone connecting sound to your ears. Requiring no assessment or fitting, this option is not tailored to specific hearing challenges.
Online Hearing Aids With Remote Support [$1850-$2400]
Easy-to-purchase online hearing aids are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience. With a simple online assessment, you’ll receive your good-quality hearing aids. However, you won’t have an in-person assessment to investigate the cause of your hearing issue and you won’t receive any ongoing support.
Hearing Aid Repairs and Maintenance [Variable Costs]:
While exploring your options for hearing solutions, it's crucial to consider the longevity and upkeep of your chosen devices. Hearing aids are sophisticated pieces of technology that, over time, may require professional cleaning, repairs, or adjustments to maintain optimal performance. Whether you opt for over-the-counter devices or personalized hearing aids fitted by an audiologist, understanding the availability and cost of repairs and maintenance is essential.
Big-Box Retail Stores [$1250-$4000]
Retail stores are becoming more and more popular for hearing concerns. For example, Sam’s Club and Costco both offer in-person screening and fitting and can provide professional technology and some level of cleaning and support. Although a great step in the right direction, you won’t receive an evaluation on your hearing or ongoing service and you can often be left on a long waiting list.
Audiology Clinic [$2500-$7500]
After a comprehensive assessment of your hearing and an in-person evaluation, an audiology clinic will carefully put together a treatment plan tailored to your hearing and lifestyle to find the right solution. With the option to utilize your insurance or use a payment plan, you’ll be a valued patient receiving premium healthcare with a team of experts on hand to help you.
Hearing Loss Surgery (Cochlear Implants) [$30,000-$50,000]
Cochlear implants are normally recommended for those suffering from severe hearing loss. Commonly covered either in part or in full by insurance, you’ll need to fill out a prerequisite candidacy form to ensure you’re eligible.
Making Your Decision
As you weigh your options for hearing solutions, remember that the journey doesn’t end with the selection of a hearing aid. Ongoing support, including regular cleanings, maintenance, and occasional repairs, plays a vital role in your overall hearing health.
Choosing a provider that offers reliable hearing aid repair services can make all the difference in your experience. We pride ourselves on providing not just initial treatment plans but also long-term care and support for your hearing aids, ensuring you continue to hear your best for years to come.
With over 40 years of experience serving our community, we’d be more than happy to answer any remaining questions you might have.
Or, if you feel you’re ready to take that next step to find your perfect hearing solution, you can contact us today or request a no-obligation callback from a member of our team.