Audiology

Hearing Aids

What is a hearing aid?

A hearing aid is a small electronic device worn in or behind the ear for individuals who have hearing loss. It is a sophisticated device that can often help to improve your hearing — when it is fit appropriately and with the expertise of a doctor of audiology. For the most part, hearing aids make only certain sounds louder so that a person with hearing loss can listen comfortably, communicate, and participate more fully in daily activities.

Do I Need a Hearing Aid?

In order to determine if you have hearing loss that would warrant the use of a hearing aid, a full audiological evaluation is recommended. Below are some questions you can ask yourself to determine if an audiological evaluation would be appropriate. 

• Do you feel it’s challenging just to follow everyday conversations?
• Do you have difficulty following conversation in noisy surroundings like restaurants?
• Do you feel that you’re missing out on activities or events you used to enjoy because of hearing difficulties?
• Do you feel you have to concentrate very hard just to hear someone talk or whisper?
• Has someone close to you mentioned that you may have an issue with your hearing?
• Do you find you need to turn up the volume on your TV or telephone?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you should consider scheduling an audiological evaluation. To schedule an appointment with a UI Health audiologist, please fill out the online form or call 312.996.6522.

Hearing Aid FAQs

How do I know which hearing aid is right for me?

Based on your specific hearing loss, communication needs and budget, the UI Healthy Audiology team will work with you to determine the best hearing aids for your individualized situation. You can try out hearing aids and Bluetooth wireless accessories before you commit to a particular device so you can experience the anticipated benefit.

How do I determine which hearing aid is best for me?

Hearing aids and other amplification devices vary in style, technology, and price. Regardless of the person’s age, hearing aids should always be fit based solely on what each individual requires. We all have unique hearing requirements. It’s up to you: What types of activities that involve hearing and listening matter to you and your lifestyle?  The answer to that question helps determine what type of hearing instrument is best and how it can be calibrated to your needs and specifications. When amplification is appropriate, we strive to fit our patients with instruments that meet their specific demands — no more, no less. In doing so, we often find the most cost-effective way to improve that individual’s communication abilities.

I don’t know if I want to get hearing aids right now. Can I wait?

If you choose to wait, you may have to have your hearing retested. In order to obtain hearing aids, you must have had a hearing evaluation within six months of the hearing aid purchase/fitting.

Remember, hearing aids are not right for everyone. For some individuals, the use of specific listening devices for the telephone and TV, along with the use of effective communication strategies, can make a considerable difference in how that person communicates. Again, it is our goal to see that each individual receives only what is best for his/her lifestyle.

For questions or to schedule an appointment with a UI Health audiologist, please fill out the online form or call 312.996.6522.