With a plethora of hearing aids and personal amplifiers on the market today, whether online or in a store, it can sometimes be hard to make a decision on how to address hearing loss. One of the main reasons patients with hearing loss may not perceive benefit or end up choosing not to wear their ear-level devices is because the devices and/or programming of them were not the most appropriate for their hearing loss and/or lifestyle. To ensure you find a hearing solution that is best for you and your lifestyle, it is recommended that you make an appointment with an Audiologist.
Audiologists are trained and qualified to diagnose hearing loss with comprehensive testing. When studying to become a Doctor of Audiology, individuals in this career path become familiar with the anatomy of the auditory system, and different causes of hearing loss. They are also trained make appropriate referrals should there be a sign of medical cause for the hearing loss. If there is a medical contribution to the hearing loss, the goal is to ensure the hearing is the best it can be before pursuing hearing aids.
Audiologists also become trained to make individualized recommendations using a patient-centered and wholistic approach to hearing care. Not every type of hearing aid is appropriate for a certain hearing loss and lifestyle. There are many factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid, and audiologists can guide you in the right direction towards the best hearing solution for you and your ears! Audiologists continue to study evidence-based research on acoustics and hearing aid processing to remain up-to-date on ways to make hearing solutions the most individualized to a patient’s needs and desires.
The Doctors at Gardner Audiology are glad to help you begin or continue your journey to better hearing! For more information, call 1-800-277-1182, or visit gardneraudiology.com to make an appointment.