Do You Know Hearing Aid Options to Consider Prior to Purchase?

Hi, There are places that offer demos so you can try a hearing aid first and see what you are "shopping" for. It is clear that not all hearing aids operate and sound the same. It is hard to listen to them online because they sound different depending on how you wear them in your ear, the size of your canal, your particular hearing loss, and your preferences. Google Demo of hearing aids and see what you can find. I do know one online store that offers a demo process called Hears Hearing & Hearables.

@kefishman & All: It's important to understand the provider's policies. This means asking questions and reading the fine print. That's true especially if you decide to purchase over the counter products.

With prescriptive devices, providers are required to include a trial period after appropriate fitting of hearing instruments. That timeline can vary, so it is important for the 'consumer' to ask questions and understand that provider's policy.

In most professional offices, the time allowed for trial is between 30 - 45 days. In some big box stores such as Costco, that trial period is longer. Regardless of time allowed it is important for YOU, the 'consumer' to try that product in all possible locations where you want to hear. Theater, worship center, social settings, meetings, card groups, etc. etc. Take notes on how well it works where so at a follow up appointment you can explain that to the provider.

We don't like it that hearing instruments cost so much, but they do. So, we want to get a product that works well for us. Only we know what that is.

IMPORTANT: If a hearing instrument is returned even a single day after the agreed upon trial period, it's unlikely you can return it for a refund. You should always be able to get help from the provider with re setting and testing. Be proactive. This is a medical device that is sold like a consumer product.

How much advance research do you do when you need to purchase an appliance? A computer? A car? Seriously, it's important to be as informed as possible and to also trust the provider you work with.

@julieo4 I am a provider. That is why we offer demos in our clinic and have an online store. I think more people need to understand that all devices are different and what they are getting when they do go to Costco, which is a one-size-fits-all type mentality. And maybe it will work for that person, maybe it won't. And there are used and consignment aids available. We need more education for our consumers and to be advocates. Thanks, P.S. You can return during the return process. If the provider charges for her time, that is not refundable if the service has been provided.

Just a thought, how many seniors reading these messages have had the vaccine for Shingells? Given that many school age children have not been immunized and those kids could be your grandchildren or other children you may come into contact with. These kids if they have chickenpox can easily bring on a case if shingells in an adult who is not protected.

@cleveland26, I was lucky enough to take your suggestion before I read it. I am thrilled with the Philips 9050 hearing aids I bought at Costco a month ago for $1595. Basing my decision on, among other things, recommendations from people on this website and reviews of Oticon Intent that cost thousands of dollars more, I feel confident I made the right decision. @jutkele.

@jutkele, I'm glad to hear your good news. Costco Hearing Centers are a good option. In addition to their great prices for top of the line hearing aids, they have a return policy of 180 days and their policy is to perform Real Ear Measurement which is considered one of the "gold standards" in hearing aid fitting.