It can be challenging to watch your teen have hearing loss as a parent. The good news is that with advancements in technology, there are now more options available than ever when finding the correct type of hearing aid for teens.
While selecting a suitable device might seem confusing or overwhelming, this blog post will provide helpful tips and advice on what to consider when choosing and using hearing aids properly for your teenager.
- Look for Advanced Options
As is the case with other fields, there are always advances in hearing aid technology. It is vital to research the latest hearing aids and speak to your audiologist about which would be best for your teen.
Some considerations include type, size, power level, or specialized features such as Bluetooth connectivity or noise cancellation capabilities.
The technology used in hearing aids may also determine how comfortable your teen is wearing them. If you think a specific type of hearing aid might be too bulky or uncomfortable for your teen to wear, it’s best to look into other options before deciding.
- Choose Based On the Degree of Hearing Loss
The degree of hearing loss that your teenager has can also affect the type of hearing aid you select. If your teen suffers from severe or profound hearing loss, they may require a power hearing aid or one with specialized features such as directional microphones or telecoil settings.
However, if your teen’s hearing is not severely diminished, they may get away with using a smaller behind-the-ear model or even an in-the-ear device. An audiologist at HearCanada can conduct hearing tests and assessments to help you determine the best type of hearing aid for your teen’s needs.
The best hearing aid is tailored to the individual and their degree of hearing loss.
- Cost
Hearing aids can be quite costly, and it’s essential to factor in the cost when selecting a hearing aid for your teen. You should look into insurance or government assistance options that may be available for purchasing hearing aids for your teenager.
Additionally, you should consider if there are payment plans or other financing options that can help make the purchase more affordable. Private insurance providers may have different rules and policies when covering hearing aid costs, so check with your insurer before purchasing.
- Consider Maintenance and Care
Once you’ve chosen the right hearing aid for your teen, proper maintenance and care should be taken to ensure that their device stays optimal. Your teen should be taught how to properly clean and care for their hearing aids and how to replace batteries or make minor adjustments.
It’s also crucial that your teen visits their audiologist regularly to get any necessary repairs or replacements done on the device. It’s best to stay up-to-date on the latest hearing aid maintenance and repair information to ensure your teen gets the best possible care for their device.
- Factor in Comfort and Aesthetics
Hearing aids are a very personal device; if your teen is uncomfortable wearing them, it can impact their quality of life. Therefore it’s important to consider comfort and aesthetics when selecting the right hearing aid for your teenager.
Your child may have specific preferences regarding style and color, so it’s important to remember this when choosing a device for them. Additionally, you should look for lightweight and comfortable models to wear for extended periods.
Uncomfortable hearing aids can lead to losing confidence and self-esteem, so it’s essential to consider these factors when deciding.
Selecting the right hearing aid for your teen can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Hearing aids are essential and life-changing devices that can help improve your child’s quality of life and communication abilities. By taking these tips into account, you can find a pair of hearing aids that can transform your teen’s life.
Marissa is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist turned stay-at-home mom who loves sharing her tips, tricks, and ideas for navigating motherhood. Her days are filled starting tickle wars and dance parties with three energetic toddlers and wondering how long she can leave the house a mess until her husband notices. When she doesn’t have her hands full of children, she enjoys a glass (or 3) of wine, reality tv, and country music. In addition to blogging about all things motherhood, she sells printables on Etsy and has another website, teachinglittles.com, for kid’s activity ideas.
