Hearing aids and glasses might seem like incompatible opposites, but is there a means to get these two very necessary accessories to work together? How to wear both is a question that comes up a lot, specifically if you are thinking about behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. Here’s the question, can I wear them both comfortably? The answer is yes.
If you wear glasses, there are certain things to think about when investing in hearing aids. Use these tips to make sure your hearing aids and glasses work well together.
Choosing The Hearing Aids Which Best Fit Your Needs
Whether you wear glasses or not, there’s a lot to consider when buying new hearing aids. You can get hearing aids in many sizes, shapes, and styles. If you like cool colors, you can get that also. Modern high tech hearing aids are not the same as the ones that grandpa wore.
The first thing to do is to find out what types of hearing aids are on the market. They break down 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 resting in the opening of the ear canal. Open-fit versions are pretty much the same setup but without the earmold.
- In-the-ear (ITE) – As the name suggests, this style of hearing aid fits right 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 hurdles. You can compare the many features of a new hearing aid, but first, you need to choose the right style.
Considering The Different Features
It’s really the features not the shape of the hearing aid that should be your main consideration when researching. Features are getting better all of the time as hearing aid technology evolves. Watch for some of these common ones:
- Directional microphone – This will help pinpoint the sound you need to hear while you are in a noisy location. For instance, if someone is talking to you at a restaurant, you can hear their words easily in spite of the noise around you.
- T-coil – This function 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 church or at the movies.
- Noise reduction – Filters out background noise by amplifying one channel to augment speech.
Your aim is to determine the right set of features to fit your lifestyle. After that picking out the style should be easy.
Can You Even Use BTE Hearing Aids With Glasses?
BTE hearing aids can be worn with glasses. If you want them to be comfortable you need to wear both of these essential accessories the proper way. Here are some tips:
- Think about the size of the BTE hearing aids before purchasing. Although it’s a little bulky, the traditional version will still work with glasses. The mini BTE is a fairly new option. Because the behind the ear portion is smaller, you get improved comfort and less feedback. You have to try both styles out to determine which one works best.
- First put your glasses on, then your hearing aid. The position of your glasses arm is more fixed than your hearing aid so it’s harder to adjust. After placing the hearing aid, check in a mirror to be certain it’s not hanging off your outer ear.
- With both hands, and in a forward motion, practice removing your glasses. Taking them off in this way won’t become a habit immediately. Every time you knock off your hearing aids, though, will help to reinforce the practice.
The only choice for those who have a real issue wearing a BTE hearing aid with glasses would be the ITE or ITC models. If you of your glasses frequently, as an example, BTE devices will be a real inconvenience. Children will usually have trouble with this type of hearing aid and also adults with small ears. Most reputable hearing aid sellers will give a trial period, so schedule an appointment to see what model is best for you. Trying the different styles is the only way you will know for sure which style works best for your needs.