Hearing loss is not uncommon in older adults and adults who have been exposed to constant, high-level noise. Hearing aids are generally used by people with varying degrees of permanent hearing loss. When hearing assistance becomes necessary to maintain normal functions, not everyone knows where to turn for help. Some people are even unaware that their hearing is bad because the loss has been so gradual. Whether you or someone you love is having trouble hearing, the best sources of hearing aid help usually begin with an audiologist.
An audiologist is a trained medical professional who uses special equipment to conduct hearing tests and record results, helping determine the amount of hearing loss and specific details about the hearing loss to help determine the best way to help recover hearing. Audiologists see all ages and types of people, from children to the elderly. They are equipped to detect hearing loss, as well as document the auditory process of each ear, ultimately providing a complete overview of hearing function. Audiologists can not only help determine hearing loss, but can also provide hearing aid help.
Many audiologists work in otolaryngologist practices. An otolaryngologist is more commonly referred to as an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) and is a physician who treats problems in the ear, nose and throat. If you have suspected hearing loss and think you might need a hearing aid, otolaryngologists and audiologists are the perfect partners for providing hearing aid help.
Many people who could benefit from a hearing aid either don't own one or don't know how to get hearing aid help. The reason many people with hearing aids may not use them could be due to improper fitting or calibration of their hearing assistance device. This is why involving a health professional in treating hearing loss is so important. They are trained to fit, calibrate and adjust hearing aids according to each individual’s hearing loss condition.
Another reason why people who need hearing aid help may not get the help they need is financial. There are many programs that can help low-income seniors and families afford hearing aids. In the United States, where many insurance companies provide coverage for hearing testing, but do not cover the cost of hearing aids, financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Medicaid will pay for children and adults under 21 to receive hearing tests and hearing aids if necessary. For seniors, Medicare does not provide coverage for hearing aids, but there are other options for financial assistance, depending on the country.
