1. What types of hearing aids are available?

2. Where can I buy a hearing aid?

A hearing aid should always be bought from a qualified Audiologist who will prescribe one after a series of elaborate tests. A hearing aid SHOULD NOT BE BOUGHT ACROSS THE COUNTER.

3. How long does hearing aid batteries last?

The pen torch cells that are used with body level hearing aids last upto 100 hours. The button cells that are used in behind-the-ear and in-the-ear hearing aids last for 250 - 400 hours. Rechargeable batteries may also be used with hearing aids.

4. What are programmable hearing aids?

These are technologically very advanced hearing aids. Programmable hearing aids may be Analog or Digital.

The Analog programmable hearing aid is programmed at the time of prescription to suit individual amplification needs.

The Digital programmable aids, once programmed, have the capacity to automatically adjust to meet the communication needs of an individual. These digital signal-processing hearing aids give excellent sound fidelity.

5. Do even adults require two hearing aids?

Ideally, two hearing aids are to be prescribed for someone with hearing loss in both ears. But factors such as affordability and communication needs influence prescription.

6. My Grandfather, who is 70 years old, complains that his hearing aid is very noisy and hardly uses it. Is there an alternative?

Yes, the new generation of hearing aids are now available that can cut down noise and significantly enhance understanding of speech. You may contact an Audiologist to try them on your grandfather.

7. My Husband has just been prescribed a hearing aid. In what way can I help?

You can help by:

• Ensuring that he uses the hearing aid as advised

• Talking at a normal level

• Rephrasing instead of repeating when he asks for a clarification

• Facing him while talking

• Indicating to him whenever there is a shift in topic

• Keeping the ambient noise levels to a minimum (switch off the T.V during conversation)

8. What is the difference between an ear mould and an ear tip?

An ear mould is custom made to fit snugly into the individual's ear canal so that there is no sound leak. In addition, it also enhances the hearing aid's performance.

An ear tip, on the other hand, is made of plastic and usually comes with the hearing aid. It is used to fit the hearing aid into the ear until the ear mould is ready.

9. How long will hearing aids last?

Like any other electronic instrument the performance of a hearing aid deteriorates over time. However, with good care, the hearing aid can last for several years. Hearing aids used by young children are particularly susceptible to damage.

The output of a hearing aid can be tested with a hearing aid test box. It is best to check the output of the hearing aid every 1-2 years, or whenever you suspect that sound quality has deteriorated.