How to Choose a Hearing Aid

Hearing impairments affect a tenth of the population; hearing aids could help 95 percent of that group. With 1,000 varieties to choose from, you're likely to find one that's right for you.

Things You'll Need

• Hearing Aids

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Instructions

• 1

  Arrange to have your hearing tested by an audiologist or otologist (ear doctor) if you think your hearing isn't what it should be.

• 2

  Ask your doctor to refer you to a licensed hearing aid specialist, who will help you select a device based on how well you can hear, what your lifestyle is like, and what you can afford.

• 3

  Call the Better Hearing Institute's Hearing Help Line at (800) EAR-WELL if you can't afford a hearing aid. They cost between $500 and $2,800, including office visits.

• 4

  Pay attention to how well your new hearing aid fits and works over the first few weeks. If it's not working out for you, your hearing aid specialist may recommend another type.