HEALTH
HEALTH
OUR VALLEY SANTA CLARITA
Nola Aronson , Audiologist
Shopping for Hearing Aids -- The Do ’ s and Don ’ ts
DO visit an audiologist . An audiologist can diagnose hearing loss and also detect other conditions that might go unnoticed if you try to purchase hearing aids online .
DO discuss with your audiologist which features will best fit your needs . There are a wide range of hearing aids available for today ’ s consumers and they have many unique features . If you travel a lot or are in a lot of noisy areas you might want a hearing aid that will better fit your needs .
DO research to determine the costs of hearing aids , so that you are better informed when you speak to your audiologist . Although the Internet can not diagnose or treat hearing loss it does have information about manufacturers and different styles of hearing aids .
DO ask what the cost includes . It ’ s not just about the hearing aid . Hearing aids require several follow-up appointments in order to get the sound system tailored to your specific hearing loss . Make sure to ask your audiologist about all costs .
DO ask how the device will be serviced . Ask how much service typically costs for a device that ’ s out of warranty .
DO ask about extended trial periods . A 60-day trial is preferable to 30 , since note very one adjusts to the aids in a month .
DO consider a loss-insurance policy . Many hearing health professionals provide extra insurance for lost or damaged hearing aids . Since hearing aids are such a big investment , getting extra insurance is usually a wise move .
DO look into financial options . Not only are there options with your insurance company , but there are numerous places online that will help finance or guide your through financing options . -- DON ’ T buy hearing aids by mail or the internet from makers who claim you don ’ t need direct contact with an audiologist .
DON ’ T take two-for-one sales at face value . The first aid may cost more than two comparable aids .
DON ’ T buy an extended warranty up front . After an out-of-warranty repair , the manufacturer will provide a new , free warranty - typically for 12 months .
If you have more questions about the Do ’ s and Don ’ ts of purchasing a hearing aid , call the hearing experts at Nola Aronson ’ s Advanced Audiology , 661-505-1135 .
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