How can I help a person with hearing loss hear me? Part 5

Modern digital hearing aids are much more effective and discreet than the bulky traditional hearing aids most people are used to seeing on the elderly. Modern hearing aids are programmable and can be fitted completely inside the ear canal. The models that fit completely inside the ear canal are almost invisible to others. The programmability of digital hearing aids also make them the most effective in treating mild to moderate hearing loss in hearing impaired patients. Hearing aids can be individually programmed to improve the hearing in patients with mild to profound losses. Digital hearing aids are also available in many different styles including small behind the ear models, models that fit mostly inside the ear canal and models that fit completely inside the ear canal. A professional hearing aid dispenser, should be able to recommend the best model for a patient’s particular type of hearing loss. Not all cases of hearing loss, for instance, are effectively aided by one model of hearing aid. Depending on the type of hearing loss, the best model will be recommended based on best correction.

Regardless of the type of hearing loss, hearing aids should be a consideration for treatment. Hearing aids have even been found to assist those with profound hearing losses. It is important for patients with hearing loss, and their caregivers and families, to completely understand their condition. The most effective way to communicate with someone with hearing loss is to ask them what you can do to help them hear you more clearly. Including the person with hearing loss in your decisions on how to speak with them can make them feel more empowered and more involved with the conversation.

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