The Importance of Hearing Aids for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Hearing aids are a crucial device for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. They are designed to amplify sound and help people hear better in various environments. For many people, hearing aids are the key to communication and social interaction.

Over the years, hearing aids have evolved significantly. They now come in various styles, shapes, and sizes, and they have improved significantly in terms of sound quality and functionality. My favorite function is blue-tooth! I can take phone calls without having to worry about losing my phone. The most common types of hearing aids are behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) devices. While both are effective, some people prefer one type over the other.

Personally, I prefer over-the-ear hearing aids as they feel more comfortable and secure on my ear. I find that they provide better sound quality, and I can adjust the volume easily. I also don't have the hassle of losing them since there are color differences and have tracking! On the other hand, my brother Jason prefers in-the-ear hearing aids as they are more discreet and less noticeable. He finds that they are more convenient to use, especially when he is out in public.

Regardless of the style, hearing aids are an essential tool for anyone with hearing loss. They help individuals hear sounds they may have otherwise missed, and they improve overall quality of life. With the help of hearing aids, people can participate more fully in conversations and enjoy their favorite activities with ease.

If you are considering getting hearing aids, it's important to talk to an audiologist who can help you choose the right type for your needs. They can also provide guidance on how to care for and maintain your hearing aids to ensure they work effectively.

Funny story that I didn't think about telling until I was writing this. On my very first day of my first "big girl" job, we had an orientation. I was seated next to a coworker, Chaz. He noticed that I was wearing hearing aids and made sure to speak louder/clearly when he was directing convos towards me. Little things like this make us feel appreciated and safe! Yes. Safe.

There were a lot of times where Jason and I (especially Jason) were bullied when people saw us wearing them, so we resorted to not wearing them and feigning ignorance. For the longest time, we had to deal with people saying "oh, I thought you were just dumb." and treated us as such. Needless to say, we cut those people out and wear our hearing aids with pride :)

Let us know in the comments below what you prefer and why!