Choosing a hearing aid

You can greatly increase your satisfaction with a hearing aid by following these suggestions:

�  Learn about the choices

Hearing aids come in many styles and sizes - from small ones that fit completely in the ear canal to larger ones that fit in or behind the ear. The components can be analog or digital.

The disposable "one-size fits-all" hearing aids can't comfort- ably fit everyone, so discuss all options with your audiologist.

�  List your priorities

 When people Buy hearing aids, they typically face a trade-off among  three factors - cost, performance and size.

�  Find out what meets your needs

Make sure you understand why a specific type of hearing aid is recommended and how it will meet your needs. Don't assume the latest, most expensive model is best. Practice putting the battery in and taking it out until you can do it easily.

�  Buy on a trial basis

A hearing aid should come with a 30- to 60-day trial period and a warranty. Get the terms of the trial period in writing. Also ask how long the warranty lasts - preferably one or two years - what is and isn't covered, what the return policy is, and what symptom relief.