Is it possible to comfortably wear hearing aids while you are also wearing your glasses, even though the two don’t seem very agreeable? If you are looking at a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, this typical question is even more relevant. People often ask whether or not they can work together comfortably. Yes is the answer.
If you wear glasses, there are certain things to consider when purchasing hearing aids. Learn the secrets to wearing glasses and hearing aids at the same time.
There Are Several Types of Hearing Aids That May Work For Your Needs
There is a lot to think about when you’re shopping for hearing aids, whether you wear glasses or not. Shape, size, and style are all customizations that are readily available. If you like cool colors, you can get that as well. The point is, the days of having to wear hearing aids like your grandpa did is gone.
The first step is to find out what types of hearing aids are on the market. They divide into three basic categories:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) – This is an older style of hearing aid, but today’s version of this technology is way more advanced. With this model, the main section of the device mounts right behind the ear with clear tubing that connects to an earmold resting in the opening of the ear canal. Open-fit models are basically the same setup but without the earmold.
- In-the-ear (ITE) – As the name indicates, this format of hearing aid fits directly into the opening of the ear canal and has nothing mounted behind the ear.
- In-the-canal (ITC) – This style is a lot like the ITE version but it sits deeper inside the ear, making them nearly invisible.
ITE and ITC models will allow people with glasses to avoid many drawbacks. Once you decide on the physical style, it’s time to compare the features of different hearing aids.
Learning About The Features
When purchasing, it’s the features that should be your primary concern not the shape of the hearing aid. Hearing aid technology is evolving all the time, so features constantly change. Watch for some of these common ones:
- Noise reduction – Filters out background noise by amplifying one channel to augment speech.
- Directional microphone – This helps pinpoint the sound you need to hear when you are in a noisy spot. For example, if someone is talking to you at a party, you will be able to hear their words easily in spite of the noise all around you.
- T-coil – This function allows you to hear better while using a land-line phone. T-coil technology is effective when you are listening to people talk through a speaker like at a bingo game or on the radio.
Determining the right features to suit your lifestyle is the goal. After that choosing the style should be easy.
Wearing BTE Hearing Aids With Glasses
BTE hearing aids can be worn while your wearing glasses. If you want them to fit together comfortably you have to wear both of these important accessories the right way. Here are some tips:
- Using both hands, and in a forward motion, practice removing your glasses. It will take some time before you form a habit of removing them this way. The practice will be reinforced each time you knock off your hearing aid.
- Consider the size of the BTE hearing aids before buying. Even though the standard size will still work with glasses, it’s a little bit bulky. The mini BTE is a fairly new alternative. Because the behind the ear portion is smaller, you get enhanced comfort and less feedback. The only sure way to tell which one will be best for you is to try them both out.
- First put your glasses on, then your hearing aid. Placement of the hearing aid unit is a little more flexible so you can work it in around the arm of the glasses to make it comfortable. Check in the mirror after positioning the hearing aid so you will know it looks natural and isn’t hanging off your pinna, which is the outer part of the ear.
The only choice for those that have a real problem using a BTE hearing aid with glasses would be the ITE or ITC devices. For example, if you take off your glasses a lot, BTE devices will be a much bigger hassle. Children will usually have problems with this type of hearing aid and also adults with small ears. Which style is best for you can be determined if you schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist and make use of the free trial. Trying out the different styles is the only way you will know which style works best for your needs.