Below are some of the popular FAQ’s that we are asked but if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 0304 542
Which is the manufacturer has the best hearings?
That’s a great question and in the ethos of Hearing Aids at Trade here is my personal honest answer. The truth is that all manufacturers hearing aids are of a superb quality. As a dispenser myself I find it entertaining listening to each of the manufacturers representatives, telling me why their company’s products are the best, even to finite detail where on occasions they have pulled out a specification sheet of all the points that make their product stand out more than the competition.
Every dispenser will have their favourites that they are comfortable in dispensing to clients to gain their satisfaction. The big difference however is that if that dispenser works for say Hidden Hearing then they will be so familiar with the Oticon software because they have to sell at least 80% of their products, Hidden Hearing being owned by William Demant who also own Oticon.
If that hearing aid dispenser went independent as all our dispensers are, then they would probably recommend Oticon because they have been so use to fitting their products. As an example the first company I worked for always used Resound, the second company always used Widex. At the moment I personally stick to Phonak or Widex because the fittings g in most cases like a dream. If my client is happy, then why change. I have tried some but not all of the others so stick to them as my clients satisfaction is vital.
This is another great reason why Hearing Aids at Trade should be a preferred option to the high street, as we are not tied to using one company.
But to reiterate, all manufacturers are offering digital hearing aids of great quality today so don’t get too hung up on it. Let the dispenser advice you as they are going to be responsible for your satisfaction.
How will I know if I need a hearing aid?
The only sure way to answer this is by having a full hearing test by a qualified Hearing Aid Dispenser. The hearing test will not only show if a hearing loss is present but will also show the degree of the loss and whether hearing aids would be beneficial to you. All the Dispensers Hearing Aids At Trade work with will explain the results so you can understand them and not be confused by the terminology used and the science of it all. The Dispenser will demonstrate the hearing aids that would benefit you. In the ear (ITE) or completely in the canal (CIC) hearing aids are custom made to your ears so the demonstration will be with behind the ear (BTE) aids.
How many kinds of digital hearing aids are there?
When first starting to research hearing aids some are surprised and more often confused to find out not only how many different types of aids available but also the different levels of technology for each aid. All hearing aids have a microphone or microphones, where sounds enter the aid and a receiver which omits the sounds into the ear. The bit in the middle is the technology and it’s where the sounds are processed and improves the quality of how you hear. The sound processor not only alters the quality of what you hear but also reflects your ability to hear in noisier environments. More importantly the level and quality of the technology reflects in the cost of the aids.
How do I know which hearing aid is best for me?
During your hearing consultation the Dispenser will compile a case history of your needs and lifestyle. Some people say “you get what you pay for”, this is true but some people may pay for technology that will never be used and once the case history and results have been established the Hearing Aid Dispenser will ensure that the clients’ needs are met so that you don’t pay for technology that will never be used.
Why do hearing aids cost so much?
The cost of hearing aids will vary in price and start from around a couple of hundred pounds to thousands of pounds. There are about 15 different attributes in a hearing aid that affect the performance and also price of hearing aids. The number of channels in a hearing aid is a very important consideration when purchasing hearing aids, they work by dividing the range of sounds responsible for speech after entering the microphone. The greater number of channels or times the sound is divided up, then the clearer the hearing will be and this also reflects the cost of hearing aids.
How long do hearing aids last?
The life expectancy of hearing aids is on average around 5 – 7 years, but the care taken by looking after your hearing aids will also contribute towards how long the aids will last. As an example you should always turn your aids off after removing them so that battery life is preserved. Always store your aids in a dry place and have your aids regularly serviced. Filters should also be replaced as and when required We do strongly advise that your hearing aids are insured under your household contents insurance against accidental damage or loss.
NHS hearing aids.
Some people opt for NHS hearing aids. Your G.P. will refer you to the Ear Nose and Throat Department at your local hospital. Depending on the Primary Care Trust (PCT) you come under, the waiting list for the initial appointment can be up to 12 weeks. NHS hearing aids are limited to style and technology, whilst the private hearing aid market eliminates any delays and with choice of style, design and technology levels. The main differences between private and N.H.S. hearing aids is “more choice” on styles, designs and levels of technology when buying privately.
For more information on any of the above o r if you have any other questions about hearing aids or about our services and products call us today free on 0800 0304 542
