Do you use hearing aids now? How long have you been aware of having hearing loss?

It is important to have your hearing tested by a reputable audiologist. You want to get a baseline audiogram that the audiologist will explain to you. That way you know where your hearing loss lies on the spectrum; mild, moderate, severe, etc. If your loss is in the mild range you may want to look into the 'over the counter' non prescriptive hearing aids that are now available. If you do that, be sure to know what the return policy is and also the trial period.

For more severe hearing loss it makes sense to consider prescriptive hearing aids that are fit for your specific hearing loss. The brands that are best known are Widex, Oticon, Phonak, Starkey, Siemans & ReSound. These companies also make hearing aids under different names. ALWAYS insist on a trial period and return policy when buying any of them.

It's very helpful to talk to people you know who use hearing aids and have a provider they are comfortable with. Ask questions. The Hearing Loss Association of America has chapters throughout the United States. Chapters provide a place where hard of hearing people come together to learn and share their experiences. Ask questions. The HLAA website provides information about chapters, research and much more, so is worth checking.

People's hearing aid experiences vary. What works well for one may not work well for another. Hearing loss varies among individuals. It helps a lot to know the options you might have in your geographical area.

Do you know if there is an HLAA Chapter in your area?