Getting Hearing Aids

For mild to moderate hearing loss, a good set of hearing aids will set your child in the right path. After determining the level of hearing loss your child has, your ENT or audiologist or a hearing professional will recommend hearing aid options for your child.

There are different types of hearing aids available depending on the level of hearing loss, aesthetic considerations, and of course, budget. But since we are dealing with childhood hearing loss, let's look at a Behind the Ear or BTE hearing aid.

What is a Behind the Ear Hearing Aid?

A BTE hearing aid is the type that is usually recommended for infants or children. The way it works is that a mold is fitted in your child's ear and the hearing aid is connected in tact, literally behind the ear. The mold is something that you want to change as your child's ears grow. You would also need to clean it regularly.

Here are some considerations for you when deciding what hearing aid to get.

• Power. The level of hearing loss of your child can be matched with a particular hearing aid power. A hearing aid is not a one size fit all device, so you need to consider your child's hearing loss frequencies. Digital hearing aids are already available in the Philippines and these can be programmed to your child's levels. Some hearing aids have more sound channels that allow your child to hear frequencies better than single channel hearing aids.
• Brand. In the Philippines, there are different hearing aid brands distributed by different companies. Do your due diligence and find out the brands that will suit you best. Yes, Google is your best friend here. Aside from the features of the hearing aid, find out about their battery life, spare parts availability, and warranty. Compare these to determine what's best for your child.
• Price. There are different price points for hearing aids and depending on your budget, you can mix and match the price points with the power you need to give your child the optimal device for your child's hearing loss level.
• After Sales Support. As your child grows up, so does your hearing aid needs. Consider the level of support you can get after purchasing your device from any supplier. The relationship you will have is long term as your first hearing aid purchase, won't be your last.

Another tip is to try and see if you can get a trial run of the hearing aids you want. Some companies let you try them on for at least two weeks. Observe and ask questions before you ultimately decide, it is for your child's best interest