Losing your hearing is a difficult experience, regardless of age. Even if you’re older and may have expected that you’d be some age-related hearing loss, it’s still hard to accept the degree of hearing loss you may have. Seniors don’t like the thought that they’re losing some of their capacities any more than anyone else does, after all.
That being said, hearing loss happens to so many people. According to reporting from the CDC, around 50 percent of people aged 12 to 35 may experience some hearing impairment due to continuous exposure to loud noises. Loud noises can mean anything from a rock concert or machinery at a job site to the subway or other background noise. If you find that you’re asking people to repeat themselves, having trouble differentiating conversations from the background noise of a room, or experiencing an incessant humming, buzzing, or ringing, it’s probably time to make an appointment with an audiologist. If you’re looking to inform yourself about the best rated hearing aids before your audiologist appointment, read on some useful information.
1. Get yourself the best hearing aids out there.
You’ll be pleased to know that hearing aid technology has advanced lightyears recently. Hearing aids are no longer the clunky boxes they used to be. In fact, some hearing aids can be made to be quite invisible and have a very long battery life so that you don’t have to be worried about your hearing aids conking out on you at an important meeting or a family gathering in a noisy restaurant.
There are many different types of hearing aids out there, and the hearing aids you choose will depend on the severity of hearing loss you’re experiencing. Discuss your needs with an audiologist. Do you need a hearing aid that is hidden so that only the wearer knows it’s there? Are you interested in hearing aids that deliver low-level white noise to the ear canal, masking symptoms of tinnitus? Once you get a hearing aid, should you opt to recharge batteries or but a traditional hearing aid with batteries you can get at Costco? All of these will impact your quality of life and are important questions to ask.
2. Discuss your hearing needs with your friends and family.
Hearing loss is a lifestyle change for everyone in your family. Your loved ones need to be invested in your wellness just as much as you are. Have a conversation to let family members know that you’re getting a hearing aid. If they’re planning a family get-together in a noisy restaurant, for example, maybe suggest a less noisy environment to gather in. If someone suggests a phone call, maybe ask them to meet in person so you can hear them better. By being open about your needs, you’ll avoid altercations or being let down by those who want to help you.
3. Find a natural way for relaxation.
It’s very stressful to experience hearing loss, and you can’t ignore your overall wellness even if you’re focused on the fact that you’re experiencing severe hearing loss. While there’s no remedy for hearing impairment, there are supplements that can provide a natural way to relax and regain a sense of balance.
For example, CBD (cannabidiol) has been increasingly hailed as a wonderful natural way of feeling calmer. CBD is derived from the hemp plant, but it’s very safe, and even FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approved. Many seniors are already enjoying CBD products (oils, tinctures, and edibles) for relaxation. It’s also a great idea to check out the wisdom of Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda uses essential oils (like clove or lavender oil) and other spices to encourage wellness. If you’re looking into CBD options, make sure to discuss these products with your doctors to ensure there’s no interaction with any medication you’re taking. Also, make sure you’re getting the highest quality all-natural CBD-infused Ayurvedic oil out there.
4. Research Medicare coverage.
Many seniors qualify for Medicare coverage, which can affect the cost of hearing aids and their price range you’re able to look at. Ensure you call your insurance company and see if your Medicare insurance will help pay for your hearing aids. If you’re not a senior, you should still call your insurance and see about a lower price.
5. Find an audiologist who you like.
Hearing loss is a delicate matter and an everyday condition, so make sure your doctor is someone you both trust and get along with. If you’re not working with a hearing specialist who you can ask a million questions about your hearing aid options, you’re not going with the best option.
All over the United States, people suffer from hearing impairment. You’re not alone, and you can do this. Make sure to look out for your wellness and be open about your needs. You’ll be feeling better, very soon.
