Is it possible to comfortably wear hearing aids while you are also wearing your glasses, even though the two don’t seem very harmonious? This typical question is especially true if you are considering a behind-the-ear (BTE) model. People often question whether or not they can work together comfortably. The answer is yes.
Before buying hearing aids, there are certain things to consider if you wear glasses. Learn the secrets to wearing glasses and hearing aids at the same time.
What Style of Hearing Aids Are Best for Your Situation?
There are a lot of things, in general, to consider when getting new hearing aids. Hearing aids come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. You can even get them in fancy colors if you like that kind of thing. Modern hearing aids are not the same as the ones that grandpa had.
Learning exactly what type of hearing aids are on the market is the way to start the process. They divide into three basic categories:
- In-the-canal (ITC) – This style is very much like the ITE version 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 model, the main section of the device sits right 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 except without the earmold.
- In-the-ear (ITE) – As the name suggests, this format of hearing aid fits directly into the opening of the ear canal and has nothing sitting behind the ear.
ITE and ITC versions will allow people who wear glasses to avoid many drawbacks. The features of your new hearing aid should be reviewed after deciding on a style.
Learning About The Different 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 enhance speech.
- T-coil – This feature permits you to hear better while talking on a land-line phone. T-coil technology is effective 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 when you are in a noisy spot. For example, if someone is talking to you at a restaurant, you can hear their words clearly despite the noise all around you.
Identifying the ideal features to fit your lifestyle is the objective. After that selecting the style should be easy.
Wearing BTE Hearing Aids With Glasses
It is possible to wear BTE hearing aids at the same time as glasses. The secret is to wear both of these important accessories in the correct way, so they are comfortable. Here are some tips:
- Practice removing your glasses by pulling them forward with both hands instead of pulling them up with one. It’s going to take time for this to become a habit. When you forget to do this motion you will knock off your hearing aid and that will reinforce the practice.
- Choose the appropriate size BTE before you commit to a purchase. Even though it’s a little bulky, the traditional version will still work with glasses. The other option is a fairly new style known as mini BTE. Reduced feedback and improved comfort are gained by making the behind the ear portion smaller. Either of these will work fine with glasses but see which style fits you best.
- Get used to putting on your glasses first and then your hearing aids. You can work the placement of your hearing aid around the arm of your glasses which sits a little more rigidly. After placing the hearing aid, check in the mirror to be sure it’s not hanging off your outer ear.
ITE and ITC styles will be the only choices for those that can’t wear a BTE device with their glasses. If you take your glasses off frequently, for example, a BTE device will be a real hassle. Children will commonly have trouble with this type of hearing aid and also adults with small ears. If you schedule an appointment with a hearing aid professional you can get a free trial period to see which style fits your lifestyle. Whether or not you can wear both will be evident after you try them.