Tired of making people repeat themselves? Is cranking up the volume on the TV no longer enough help? That’s a signal it’s time to get your hearing checked and consider a hearing aid — and the technology has advanced tremendously.
“This is not your grandfather’s hearing aid,” yet many people have that outdated view, says audiologist Carolyn Smaka, editor of the website .
Here’s a road map for hearing problems:
• A thorough exam is essential. About 15 percent of patients with hearing problems are found to have ear infections, medication side effects, benign tumors or other problems hearing aids can’t fix, Cavitt says.
• Seek recommendations. It’s crucial to pick a hearing professional who answers your questions and listens to your concerns.
• Check insurance coverage. The initial evaluation normally is covered, but until recently the hearing aid, fitting and follow-up rarely were covered. About 30 percent of plans now cover at least some of the costs.
• Discuss your specific problems, such as talking on the phone and hearing conversations at a party.
