Is it feasible to comfortably wear hearing aids while you are also wearing your glasses, despite the fact that the two don’t seem very harmonious? If you are considering a behind-the-ear (BTE) device, this common question is even more relevant. People often question whether or not they can work together comfortably. Yes is the answer.
Before purchasing hearing aids, there are some things to give consideration to if you wear glasses. Here’s what you need to know regarding wearing hearing aids and glasses, at the same time.
What Kind of Hearing Aids Will Work Best for Your Needs?
There are a lot of factors, in general, to think about when investing in new hearing aids. Hearing aids come in all sizes, shapes, and styles. If you like cool colors, you can get that too. Modern high tech hearing aids are not the same as the ones that grandpa wore.
The first step is to determine what types of hearing aids are available. They break down into three basic categories:
- In-the-ear (ITE) – As the name indicates, this style of hearing aid fits directly into the opening of the ear canal and has nothing sitting behind the ear.
- In-the-canal (ITC) – This style is very much like the ITE model but it sits deeper inside the ear, making them nearly invisible.
- 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 style, the main section of the device mounts directly behind the ear with clear tubing that connects to an earmold sitting in the opening of the ear canal. Open-fit models are basically the same setup but without the earmold.
ITE and ITC versions will allow people who wear glasses to avoid many hurdles. The features of your new hearing aid should be considered after deciding on a style.
Getting to Know The Features
Ultimately, it’s really the features that should drive your purchase as you shop for hearing aids, not the shape. Hearing aid technology is evolving all the time, so features constantly change. Some common ones to look for include:
- T-coil – This feature enables you to hear better while talking on a land-line phone. T-coil technology is helpful if you are listening to people talk through a speaker like at a bingo game or at the movies.
- Directional microphone – This helps pinpoint the sound you need to hear while you are in a noisy location. For example, if someone is talking to you at a restaurant, you will be able to hear their words clearly in spite of the noise around you.
- Noise reduction – Filters out background noise by amplifying one channel to enhance speech.
Your objective is to find the best set of features to fit your lifestyle. At that point, you can make a decision on the style of hearing aid.
What if You Want BTE Hearing Aids?
BTE hearing aids can be worn while your wearing glasses. The secret is to wear both of these essential accessories properly, so they are comfortable. Here are some tips:
- Using both hands, and in a forward motion, practice taking off your glasses. Removing them in this way won’t become a habit right away. Every time you knock off your hearing aids, though, will help to develop the practice.
- First put on your glasses, then put in your hearing aid. You can maneuver your hearing aid around the arm of your glasses which is a little more rigid. After positioning the hearing aid, look in the mirror to be sure it’s not hanging from your outer ear.
- Select the appropriate size BTE before you commit to a purchase. Although it’s a little bit bulky, the standard version will still work with glasses. A newer style choice is the mini BTE. Reduced feedback and enhanced comfort are gained by making the behind the ear portion smaller. You have to try out both styles to determine which one works best.
There will be some people that will have to stay with ITE or ITC hearing aids. If you of your glasses frequently, for instance, BTE devices will be a real hassle. Children and people who have really small ears tend to have difficulty with this combination, too. If you schedule an appointment with a hearing aid professional you can get a free trial period to find out which style fits your lifestyle. Use this trial to see if you can wear both or not.